18:23–35 See 5:7 and 7:2. Those who know God’s mercy must operate on the principle of mercy. If they do not show mercy but insist on justice, they will not receive mercy, but justice. An unforgiving heart is an unforgiven heart and is subject to torment “until he should pay all” (v. 34; 6:12 note). A truly forgiving heart is one result of spiritual rebirth (John 3:3).