Matthew 18:14
New International Version
In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.

New Living Translation
In the same way, it is not my heavenly Father’s will that even one of these little ones should perish.

English Standard Version
So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.

Berean Standard Bible
In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.

Berean Literal Bible
Thus it is not the will of your Father who is in the heavens that one of these little ones should perish.

King James Bible
Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

New King James Version
Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.

New American Standard Bible
So it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven for one of these little ones to perish.

NASB 1995
“So it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones perish.

NASB 1977
“Thus it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones perish.

Legacy Standard Bible
In this way, it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones perish.

Amplified Bible
So it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones be lost.

Christian Standard Bible
In the same way, it is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones perish.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
In the same way, it is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones perish.

American Standard Version
Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

Contemporary English Version
That's how it is with your Father in heaven. He doesn't want any of these little ones to be lost.

English Revised Version
Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
In the same way, your Father in heaven does not want one of these little ones to be lost.

Good News Translation
In just the same way your Father in heaven does not want any of these little ones to be lost.

International Standard Version
In the same way, it is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should be lost."

NET Bible
In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that one of these little ones be lost.

New Heart English Bible
Even so it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.

Webster's Bible Translation
Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

Weymouth New Testament
Just so it is not the will of your Father in Heaven that one of these little ones should be lost.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.

World English Bible
Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
so it is not [the] will in [the] presence of your Father who is in the heavens that one of these little ones may perish.

Berean Literal Bible
Thus it is not the will of your Father who is in the heavens that one of these little ones should perish.

Young's Literal Translation
so it is not will in presence of your Father who is in the heavens, that one of these little ones may perish.

Smith's Literal Translation
So is not the will of your Father, he in the heavens, that one of these little ones be lost.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Even so it is not the will of your Father, who is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Even so, it is not the will before your Father, who is in heaven, that one of these little ones should be lost.

New American Bible
In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.

New Revised Standard Version
So it is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should be lost.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Even so, your Father in heaven does not want one of these little ones to be lost.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
Just so, it is not the will before your Father who is in Heaven that one of these little ones should perish.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
Even so, it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven, that one of these little ones should be lost.

Godbey New Testament
So it is not the will of your Father who is in the heavens, that one of these little ones may perish.

Haweis New Testament
Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven, that one of these little ones perish.

Mace New Testament
in like manner your heavenly father would not that any person of such humility should be lost.

Weymouth New Testament
Just so it is not the will of your Father in Heaven that one of these little ones should be lost.

Worrell New Testament
In like manner it is not the will of your Father Who is in Heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

Worsley New Testament
Even so it is not the will of your heavenly Father, that any one of these little ones should be lost.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
13And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices more over that one sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray. 14In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish. 15If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.…

Cross References
Luke 15:4-7
“What man among you, if he has a hundred sheep and loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the pasture and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? / And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders, / comes home, and calls together his friends and neighbors to tell them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost sheep!’ ...

John 10:11-16
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. / The hired hand is not the shepherd, and the sheep are not his own. When he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf pounces on them and scatters the flock. / The man runs away because he is a hired servant and is unconcerned for the sheep. ...

2 Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.

Ezekiel 34:11-16
For this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I Myself will search for My flock and seek them out. / As a shepherd looks for his scattered sheep when he is among the flock, so I will look for My flock. I will rescue them from all the places to which they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. / I will bring them out from the peoples, gather them from the countries, and bring them into their own land. I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines, and in all the settlements of the land. ...

Isaiah 53:6
We all like sheep have gone astray, each one has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid upon Him the iniquity of us all.

John 6:39
And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that I shall lose none of those He has given Me, but raise them up at the last day.

1 Timothy 2:4
who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Luke 19:10
For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Psalm 119:176
I have strayed like a lost sheep; seek Your servant, for I have not forgotten Your commandments.

Jeremiah 23:3
Then I Myself will gather the remnant of My flock from all the lands to which I have banished them, and I will return them to their pasture, where they will be fruitful and multiply.

John 3:16-17
For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. / For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.

Romans 5:8
But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Isaiah 40:11
He tends His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. He gently leads the nursing ewes.

1 Peter 2:25
For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

Ezekiel 18:23
Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Lord GOD. Wouldn’t I prefer that he turn from his ways and live?


Treasury of Scripture

Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

it is.

Luke 12:32
Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

John 6:39,40
And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day…

John 10:27-30
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: …

your.

Matthew 5:16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Matthew 6:9,32
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name…

one.

Isaiah 40:11
He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.

Zechariah 13:7
Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the LORD of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones.

John 21:15
So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

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Matthew 18
1. Jesus warns his disciples to be humble and harmless,
7. to avoid offenses,
10. and not to despise the little ones;
15. teaches how we are to deal with our brothers when they offend us,
21. and how often to forgive them;
23. which he sets forth by a parable of the king who took account of his servants,
32. and punished him who showed no mercy to his fellow servant.














In the same way
This phrase connects the current verse to the preceding parable of the lost sheep (Matthew 18:12-13). The parable illustrates God's active pursuit of those who have gone astray, emphasizing His desire for their return. The phrase "in the same way" indicates that the following statement about God's will is directly related to the shepherd's joy in finding the lost sheep.

your Father in heaven
This phrase emphasizes the personal and relational nature of God as a Father. It reflects the intimate relationship believers have with God, who is not a distant deity but a caring and loving Father. The term "in heaven" underscores His divine authority and sovereignty, reminding readers of His ultimate power and control over all creation.

is not willing
This indicates God's intentional desire and purpose. It highlights the active will of God, showing that He has a specific intention regarding the fate of His people. This aligns with 2 Peter 3:9, which states that God is patient, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.

that any of these little ones
"These little ones" refers to believers, particularly those who are humble and dependent on God, much like children. In the broader context of Matthew 18, Jesus emphasizes the importance of humility and childlike faith. The term "little ones" can also be seen as a reference to those who are vulnerable or marginalized within the community of faith.

should perish
The word "perish" here implies spiritual destruction or eternal separation from God. It is not merely physical death but a state of being lost eternally. This reflects the seriousness of sin and the consequences of turning away from God. The use of "perish" connects to John 3:16, where God's love is shown in His desire to save the world through Jesus Christ, so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, teaching His disciples about the value of humility and the importance of caring for the "little ones" in the kingdom of heaven.

2. The Disciples
The immediate audience of Jesus' teaching, who are learning about the nature of God's kingdom and the importance of humility and care for others.

3. The Little Ones
Refers to believers, particularly those who are humble and may be considered insignificant by worldly standards. This term emphasizes the value God places on every individual.

4. The Father in Heaven
Represents God, who is characterized by His loving and protective nature, desiring that none of His children should be lost.

5. The Kingdom of Heaven
The broader context of Jesus' teaching, focusing on the values and principles that govern God's kingdom, including care, humility, and redemption.
Teaching Points
God's Heart for the Lost
God’s desire is for all to be saved and none to perish. This reflects His compassionate and loving nature, urging believers to share in this mission.

Value of Every Believer
Every individual, regardless of their status or perceived importance, is precious in God's sight. Believers are called to reflect this value in their interactions with others.

Call to Humility and Care
Jesus' teaching encourages humility and a child-like faith. Believers should care for and protect those who are vulnerable or marginalized.

Responsibility to Protect
As followers of Christ, there is a responsibility to ensure that none of the "little ones" are led astray or neglected, emphasizing the importance of community and accountability.

Assurance of God's Sovereignty
Trust in God's sovereign will and His ultimate plan for salvation, knowing that He is actively working to bring His children to Himself.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Matthew 18:14?

2. How does Matthew 18:14 emphasize God's will regarding the lost and perishing?

3. What actions can we take to align with God's will in Matthew 18:14?

4. How does Matthew 18:14 connect with the parable of the lost sheep?

5. In what ways can the church embody the message of Matthew 18:14 today?

6. How does Matthew 18:14 challenge our attitudes towards those who stray?

7. How does Matthew 18:14 reflect God's view on the salvation of the lost?

8. What does Matthew 18:14 reveal about God's will for humanity?

9. How does Matthew 18:14 challenge the concept of predestination?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Matthew 18?

11. Why leave the ninety-nine sheep?

12. Where can I find my lost sheep?

13. What does 'I will not give my glory to another' mean?

14. Why leave the ninety-nine sheep?
What Does Matthew 18:14 Mean
In the same way

Jesus has just told the story of the shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to search for the one that wandered off (Matthew 18:12-13). The phrase ties the point of that parable directly to God’s heart.

• Like the shepherd who rejoices over the recovered sheep, the Lord exults when the straying soul is restored (Luke 15:4-7).

James 5:19-20 reminds us that turning a sinner from his wandering “will save his soul from death.”

• The connection underscores that rescue is not a begrudging duty but a joyful priority for God.


your Father in heaven

The verse shifts our gaze from an earthly shepherd to the perfect, loving Father.

• Jesus taught us to pray, “Our Father in heaven” (Matthew 6:9), highlighting both intimacy and sovereignty.

Psalm 103:13 pictures the LORD as a father who has compassion on his children.

Romans 8:15 declares that believers cry, “Abba, Father,” pointing to a relationship based on adoption and grace.

Because He is Father, His concern for the vulnerable is personal, protective, and enduring.


is not willing

God’s desire is made explicit: He does not want even one to be lost.

2 Peter 3:9 echoes this, stating the Lord is “patient… not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

1 Timothy 2:3-4 affirms it pleases God “who desires all people to be saved.”

Ezekiel 33:11 records God saying, “I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked.”

This is the Father’s heart of grace. He calls, convicts, and pursues because His settled desire is redemption.


that any of these little ones

The “little ones” are both literal children and humble believers (Matthew 18:3-6).

• Jesus places a child in the disciples’ midst to illustrate kingdom greatness through humility.

Mark 10:13-16 shows Jesus welcoming children and blessing them, declaring that the kingdom belongs to such as these.

• By extension, every believer who depends on Christ with childlike faith is precious to Him.

No one is too insignificant to merit the Father’s vigilant care.


should perish

Perishing is more than physical death; it is eternal ruin apart from God.

John 3:16 promises that whoever believes in Christ “shall not perish but have eternal life.”

John 10:28 assures that Jesus gives His sheep eternal life and “they will never perish; no one can snatch them out of My hand.”

• Jude 24 celebrates the Lord’s ability “to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless.”

God’s will is the opposite of destruction: lasting life, security, and joy in His presence.


summary

Matthew 18:14 reveals a Father whose heart mirrors the shepherd’s relentless search. He is personally invested, lovingly determined, and joyfully committed to seeing every humble, trusting soul rescued from ruin. In a world that often overlooks the small and wandering, Jesus assures us that our heavenly Father never does.

(14) Even so it is not the will . . .--The form of the proposition has all the force that belongs to the rhetorical use of the negative. "It is not the will" suggests the thought that the will of the Father is the very opposite of that, and so the words are identical in their teaching with those of St. Paul, "He will have all men to be saved" (1Timothy 2:4). The continued presence of the child is again emphasised in "one of these little ones."

Verse 14. - Even so. The teaching of the parable is summed up; the conduct of the earthly shepherd is a figure of that of the heavenly Shepherd. The will of your Father... perish. To scandalize one of these little ones, or lead him into sin (which is to cause to perish), is to fight against God's will, who would have all men to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). "When the dignity of the little ones was asserted, it was Πατρός μου, 'my Father;' now that a motive directly acting on the conscience of the Christian is urged, it is Πατρὸς ὑμῶν, your Father" (Alford). St. Paul teaches that Christ died for the weak brethren (Romans 14:15; 1 Corinthians 8:11). With this text (ver. 14) before him, it is inconceivable that any one can hold the doctrine of the eternal reprobation of certain souls. The whole passage is opposed to the theory of irrespective predestination and irresistible grace.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
In the same way,
οὕτως (houtōs)
Adverb
Strong's 3779: Thus, so, in this manner. Or (referring to what precedes or follows).

your
ὑμῶν (hymōn)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

Father
Πατρὸς (Patros)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 3962: Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a 'father'.

in
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

heaven
οὐρανοῖς (ouranois)
Noun - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3772: Perhaps from the same as oros; the sky; by extension, heaven; by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the Gospel.

is
ἔστιν (estin)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1510: I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.

not
οὐκ (ouk)
Adverb
Strong's 3756: No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.

willing
θέλημα (thelēma)
Noun - Nominative Neuter Singular
Strong's 2307: An act of will, will; plur: wishes, desires. From the prolonged form of ethelo; a determination, i.e. choice or inclination.

that
ἵνα (hina)
Conjunction
Strong's 2443: In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.

any
ἓν (hen)
Adjective - Nominative Neuter Singular
Strong's 1520: One. (including the neuter Hen); a primary numeral; one.

of these
τούτων (toutōn)
Demonstrative Pronoun - Genitive Neuter Plural
Strong's 3778: This; he, she, it.

little ones
μικρῶν (mikrōn)
Adjective - Genitive Neuter Plural
Strong's 3398: Little, small. Including the comparative mikroteros apparently a primary word; small (figuratively) dignity).

should perish.
ἀπόληται (apolētai)
Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Middle - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 622: From apo and the base of olethros; to destroy fully, literally or figuratively.


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