Matthew 6:13

"Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors."

Key Reflection

In the first-century Jewish culture, the term "debts" in Matthew 6:13 is used figuratively to represent sins or transgressions against God's law. The disciples are asking for forgiveness of their sins just as they would forgive others who have wronged them. This parallels the broader context of Jesus teaching his followers about prayer and ethical conduct, emphasizing mutual accountability and divine grace within a community bound by covenant relationships.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 13. And lead us not into temptation. A petition similar to this is offered by David, Ps 141:4 "Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity." God tempts no man See Jas 1:13. This phrase, then, must be used in the sense of permitting. Do not suffer us, or permit us, to be tempted to sin. In this it is implied that God has such control over us and the tempter, as to save us from it if we call upon him. The word temptation, however, (See Barnes "Mt 4:1") means sometimes trial, affliction, anything that tests our virtue.

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