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Matthew 18:5

King James Version (KJV)

“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody

Matthew 18:5

Verse 5 of 35

Scripture focus

And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

Matthew 18:5 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on Matthew 18:5

Theological / Devotional

Little child. Jesus continues the comparison between certain admirable traits that often accompany childhood and the characteristics of those who are truly “great” in the kingdom of heaven — where the only greatness is that of character. Literal children are, of course, included, but Jesus here refers primarily to those who are yet “children” in the kingdom of heaven, that is, immature Christians (see 1 Cor. 3:1,2; Eph. 4:15; Heb. 5:13; 2 Peter 3:18; DA 440). These “little ones” are those who believe on Jesus (Matt. 18:6).

In my name. See on ch. 10:40-42. That is, “for my sake,” or “as a representative of mine.”

Receiveth me. Matthew’s narrative here omits one section of Jesus’ discourse. This section was spoken in response to a question by John about the attitude to take toward others not directly associated with Christ’s immediate followers (see on Mark 9:38-41).

By SdaBc