Weekly Teaching Reflection
April 26th Reflection
Discussion Questions
1. In Matthew 18:15–17, Jesus lays out a process for addressing sin in community.
How does this challenge the way we typically handle conflict (avoidance, gossip, public call-outs, etc.)?
2. The teaching contrasts a “ledger system” (keeping score) with a mercy-based way of living.
Where do you most notice yourself keeping a mental ledger in your relationships?
3. In the parable (Matthew 18:23–35), the first servant is forgiven an unpayable debt but refuses to forgive a small one. Why do you think it’s so difficult to extend mercy even after receiving it?
4. Jesus tells Peter to forgive “seventy-seven times.” How does this connect to the escalation of vengeance seen in Genesis 4 (Lamech), and what does that reversal mean for us?
5. The teaching defines forgiveness as “sending away” rather than a feeling. How does that change your understanding of what forgiveness actually requires?
6. Which of the four responses to hurt (revenge, reflect, carry, send away) do you tend to default to? What has that produced in your life?
7. The idea that “the measure you use will be used against you” (see Matthew 7) suggests a deep connection between how we treat others and how we experience God. How have you seen this play out personally?
8. The teaching emphasizes that forgiveness does not mean excusing, forgetting, or restoring trust automatically. Why is this distinction important for practicing healthy, real forgiveness?
Scripture Highlights for Reflection
Encourage the group to slowly read and sit with these:
“I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” Matthew 18:21–22
“The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.” Matthew 18:27
“Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?” Matthew 18:33
“For if you forgive other people… your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:14–15
For Practice This Week:
“Practice Sending It Away”
Choose one specific hurt, big or small, that you’re currently carrying.
1. Name it clearly
What happened? How did it affect you?
2. Notice your default response.
Are you trying to repay it (revenge), pass it on (reflect), or carry it?
3. Practice “sending it away” (daily if needed).
In a simple prayer or moment of reflection:
Release your right to get even
Refuse to rehearse it or weaponize it
Ask for the good of the other person (even if it feels unnatural)
4. Take one tangible step
This could look like:
Not bringing it up in conversation or gossip
Responding with patience in a small interaction
Setting a healthy boundary without bitterness
Goal: Not instant emotional resolution but practicing a new posture; living without the ledger