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Question 105 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.
Episode: Question & Answer 105
Host: Ligonier Ministries
Date: July 27, 2026
In this brief yet insightful episode, Sinclair Ferguson explores the fifth petition of the Lord’s Prayer as presented in the Westminster Shorter Catechism’s Question 105. The episode unpacks the meaning behind the petition, “forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors,” emphasizing the necessity of seeking God’s forgiveness and the transformative effect this has on believers, empowering them to forgive others from the heart. The discussion is designed to deepen listeners’ understanding of foundational Christian doctrine and encourage practical spiritual growth, suitable for believers at all stages—including pastors, teachers, and parents.
Forgiveness of Debts (Sins):
Sinclair Ferguson explains that in the fifth petition, Christians are taught to pray for God’s gracious and free pardon of their sins, highlighting the repeated and ongoing need for divine forgiveness in the Christian life.
Christ’s Sake as the Basis:
The Catechism points out that the prayer is grounded in the work of Christ—the reason God forgives is “for Christ’s sake,” reminding listeners that forgiveness is not earned but received through Jesus.
Sinclair Ferguson [00:04]:
“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.”
This succinctly summarizes the heart of the petition and links divine grace with the believer’s transformed attitude toward others.
This episode elucidates the profound connection between receiving God’s forgiveness and extending that forgiveness to others. Drawing from the Westminster Shorter Catechism, Sinclair Ferguson stresses both the necessity and encouragement of seeking pardon, rooted in Christ, and the grace-enabled outcome of heartfelt forgiveness toward fellow believers. The episode reinforces that savoring even the “meat” of sound doctrine is best digested by grounding oneself in these core biblical truths, aimed at glorifying and enjoying God forever.
