Keach's Catechism · 1794

Q116. What do we pray for in the fifth petition?

In the fifth petition, which is, "And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors," we pray that God, for Christ's sake, would freely pardon all our sins; which we are the rather encouraged to ask, because by His grace we are enabled from the heart to forgive others.
Answer · Keach's Catechism

Scripture proofs

  1. [1]
    Matthew 6:12

    And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

    Psalms 51:1

    To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bath–sheba. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.

    Psalms 51:3

    For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.

    Psalms 51:7

    Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

    Mark 11:25

    And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.

    Matthew 18:35

    So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

Proof texts as given in the original; verse text from the King James Version.