Forgiveness Among People as an Expression of Jesus’ Hospitality in Matthew 18:21-35

Abstract

The theme of forgiveness plays an important role, both in the biblical context and today, because the Bible is the basis for reflecting on how the content should be the proclamation of hospitality in everyday life. Matthew 18:21-35 makes this topic even more important because in addition to forgiveness that should be based on love and has no limits, for those who have suffered deep wounds or trauma, it requires an admission of guilt from the offender. Forgiveness must come from those who are hurt (victims), but the person who hurt (the perpetrator) must also not be passive, but must make efforts to support forgiveness, namely by humbling themselves and declaring their full guilt. The author uses a qualitative method through a descriptive approach and literature review, such as biblical books and books in which figures who discuss ethics are informed. Through this research, it is found that humans who are expected to give forgiveness are also entitled to receive an admission of guilt from the perpetrator. It does not mean that forgiveness cannot be presented in this situation, but rather to realize one's position as a guilty human being. Here, self-awareness becomes a very important aspect.