Matthew 6:12-15
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
12 and forgive us our debts,[a]
as we forgive our debtors;(A)
13 and do not subject us to the final test,[b]
but deliver us from the evil one.(B)
14 [c]If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you.(C) 15 But if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.(D)
Read full chapterFootnotes
- 6:12 Forgive us our debts: the word debts is used metaphorically of sins, “debts” owed to God (see Lk 11:4). The request is probably for forgiveness at the final judgment.
- 6:13 Jewish apocalyptic writings speak of a period of severe trial before the end of the age, sometimes called the “messianic woes.” This petition asks that the disciples be spared that final test.
- 6:14–15 These verses reflect a set pattern called “Principles of Holy Law.” Human action now will be met by a corresponding action of God at the final judgment.
Scripture texts, prefaces, introductions, footnotes and cross references used in this work are taken from the New American Bible, revised edition © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., Washington, DC All Rights Reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.