In my experience, Jesus is generally understood to have used “seventy times seven” in poetic opposition to a small number: **“seventy times seven” means “an impossibly large number”.** Matthew 18:21-22 is referenced at three places in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and I've emphasised the parts relevant to this view. In each, it is emphasised that forgiveness should be limitless. >[982.](http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P2F.HTM) **There is no offence, however serious, that the Church cannot forgive.** "There is no one, however wicked and guilty, who may not confidently hope for forgiveness, provided his repentance is honest.<sup>527</sup> Christ who died for all men desires that **in his Church the gates of forgiveness should always be open** to anyone who turns away from sin.<sup>528</sup> >[2227.](http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P7U.HTM) Children in turn contribute to the growth in holiness of their parents.<sup>36</sup> **Each and everyone should be generous and tireless in forgiving one another** for offences, quarrels, injustices, and neglect. Mutual affection suggests this. the charity of Christ demands it.<sup>37</sup> >[2845.](http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__PAB.HTM) **There is no limit or measure to this essentially divine forgiveness,**<sup>146</sup> whether one speaks of "sins" as in Luke (11:4), "debts" as in Matthew (6:12). We are always debtors: "Owe no one anything, except to love one another."<sup>147</sup> The communion of the Holy Trinity is the source and criterion of truth in every relationship. It is lived out in prayer, above all in the Eucharist.<sup>148</sup> --- <sup>36</sup> [*Gaudium et Spes*](http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_cons_19651207_gaudium-et-spes_en.html) 48 #4 <sup>37</sup> Cf. Mt 18:21-22; Lk 17:4 <sup>146</sup> Cf. Mt 18:21-22; Lk 17:3-4 <sup>147</sup> Rom 13:8 <sup>148</sup> Cf. Mt 5:23-24; 1 Jn 3:19-24 <sup>527</sup> Roman Catechism I, 11, 5 (Catechism of Trent) <sup>528</sup> Cf. Mt 18:21-22