Lesson Overview

The Lesson Overview is basically an outline . . . Think of it as the "nuts and bolts" of each lesson.

Biblical Passage While other passages often find their way into a lesson, the biblical passage is the main focus.

Supporting Scripture The supporting scripture often provides context to, gives additional insight to, or reiterates the message of the biblical passage in additional places of Scripture.

Memory Verse The memory verse is a key verse that illustrates the biblical truth of the lesson. It usually originates from the biblical passage but may be from an additional passage.

Biblical Truth The biblical truth is the central foundation of the lesson. It comes directly from the biblical passage and drives the formation of learning goals.

Context The context section gives the context of the current lesson in regards to its surrounding lessons. It may also provide a glimpse of the historical or literary context of the biblical passage.

Learning Goals The learning goals help teachers understand what the lesson seeks to accomplish. The first learning goal is the driving purpose of the Explore section of the teaching plan and is concerned with biblical knowledge. The second learning goal pertains is the Transform section and is concerned with life application.

Prayer Suggestions The prayer suggestions provide specific ideas for the teacher to pray during the week for his or her students. These ideas are based on the goals and truths of the lesson.

Biblical Passage

Matthew 18:21-35

Background Passage

Matthew 6:12-15; Luke 11:4, 17:1-4; 2 Corinthians 2:5-11; Colossians 3:12-14

Memory Verse

1 John 1:9

Table Talk Question

Do you find it easier to ask for forgiveness or to extend forgiveness to others? Explain.

Biblical Truth

Jesus taught His followers to forgive others beyond what was required by the Law.

Biblical Context

After Jesus’ teaching about who was the greatest, Matthew recorded Jesus’ teachings about the way to treat others. Within these teachings, Matthew alone recorded Jesus’ instruction about how often to forgive someone. Jesus’ response went far beyond the forgiveness requirements of the Jewish rabbis.

Learning Goals
  • Learners will analyze God's forgiveness.
  • Learners will determine how to apply God’s desire for forgiveness in their lives.
Prayer Suggestions

As you prepare to teach this lesson, pray for those in your group.

  • Pray that learners will understand the importance Jesus placed on forgiving others as they have been forgiven.
  • Pray that learners will consider why they resist extending forgiveness to others.
  • Pray that learners will seek God’s help in forgiving others so they can experience healing and reconciliation.

Acknowledgments