Because of this, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.
Therefore--"with reference to this matter." is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants--or, would scrutinize the accounts of his revenue collectors.
The disciples asked who would be greatest in the kingdom, not from hunger for holiness but for name and rank. They had dreamed of a temporal kingdom with external pomp and power, fastened upon Christ's words of glory while forgetting His sufferings. Many love to hear of privileges and crown while overlooking the yoke and cross.
AI summary
Commenting on Matthew 18:1-35
Unless we actually forgive injuries, we cut ourselves off from God's mercy entirely. God has made mutual forgiveness the certain and necessary condition of His forgiving us; unmerciful creditors who imprison the poor shall find Him equally hard and severe.
AI summary