Charles Williams has said of the Lord's Prayer, "No word…
“Charles Williams has said of the Lord's Prayer, "No word in English carries a greater possibility of terror than the little word 'as' in that clause." What makes the 'as' so terrifying? The fact that Jesus plainly links our forgiven-ness by the Father with our forgiving-ness of fellow human beings. Jesus' next remark could not be more explicit: 'If you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.'”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The word “as” in the Lord’s Prayer links forgiveness we receive with forgiveness we extend, highlighting a moral imperative.
In simple terms: Forgiveness is reciprocal.
Key Takeaway
Forgive others to receive forgiveness.
Themes
forgiveness
morality
spirituality
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church teaching
- personal counseling
- conflict mediation
- family disputes
Key Concepts
reciprocity
ethical responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you struggle to forgive others?
- What prevents you from extending forgiveness?
A Different Perspective
Some may view forgiveness as optional, not obligatory.