Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 6:15

"But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." — Matthew 6:15 (ASV)

These verses reinforce the thought of the fifth petition (see comment on v.12). The repetition serves to stress the deep importance for the community of disciples to be a forgiving community if its prayers are to be effective (cf. Psalms 66:18).