Question, why would someone who has been forgiven not forgive? Jesus is responding to Peters question vs 21. “How oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith him, I say not seven times:but, Until seventy times seven. Jesus is using what is called remez or “hinting”. See Genesis 4:24” If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold, truly Lemech seventy and seven. This is about revenge. That is what Peter is really asking. When can I get even. Jesus response 70 times 7 means you are forbidden to seek revenge. The broader context of this parable is binding (what is forbidden) and (loosing) what is forbidden). Revenge leads to violence. Gen. 5:31 And all the days of Lamech were seven hundred seventy and seven: and he died. Chapter 6:13” and God said to Noah, the end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them. The subject, In my view is not forgiveness, but revenge. Remember He is teaching the future leaders of the Church. If this reading has any merit and t he parable is about revenge how does that affect or understanding.
