Forgiveness without Limit | 4 of 4 in the Essential Church series

In this sermon, Pastor John Rallison concludes the *Essential Church* series with a message on *Forgiveness Without Limits* from Matthew 18:21–35. Peter’s question, “How many times should I forgive?” sets the stage for Jesus’ unforgettable parable of the unforgiving servant.We explore the impossible debt forgiven by the king, the shocking refusal of mercy by the servant, and what this reveals about our own hearts. Along the way, Pastor John shares the “Rocks in the Backpack” story, a vivid reminder that unforgiveness only weighs down the one who carries it.This message also unpacks the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation, offers practical helps for living a forgiving life, and challenges us with three diagnostic questions: Do I secretly want harm to come to them? Do I rehearse the offense? Can I pray for their blessing and good?At the heart of it all is the gospel truth: *“While we were still sinners, Christ died for us”* (Romans 5:8). Because God canceled our unpayable debt, we are called and empowered to release the debts of others.**Keywords:**forgiveness, forgiveness without limits, unforgiving servant, Matthew 18:21–35, parable of the unforgiving servant, Peter’s question on forgiveness, Corrie ten Boom forgiveness quote, Lewis Smedes forgiveness quote, forgiveness vs reconciliation, Christian forgiveness, rocks in the backpack story, Essential Church sermon series, Redeemer Lutheran Church Salem, Pastor John Rallison sermon, Ephesians 4:32, Romans 5:8, 2 Corinthians 5:19