How does Matthew 18:6 connect with Jesus' teachings on humility and innocence? Setting the Scene • The disciples are debating “Who then is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” (Matthew 18:1). • Jesus answers by placing a child in their midst and stating, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3). • The child becomes Jesus’ living illustration of humility and innocence. The Core Verse “But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” (Matthew 18:6) Why the Strong Warning? • “Little ones” refers not only to children but to any believer who mirrors childlike trust. • Jesus’ harsh language underlines the seriousness of leading vulnerable believers into sin. • The imagery of the millstone evokes impossibility of rescue once cast into the sea—divine judgment is certain. Humility: The Contextual Link • Matthew 18:4: “Whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” • Humility acknowledges dependence on God, just as a child relies on a parent. • Causing a “little one” to stumble reveals pride—placing one’s agenda above another’s spiritual welfare (cf. Philippians 2:3–4; 1 Peter 5:5). Innocence: The Moral Link • Children symbolize purity of heart and simple faith (cf. Matthew 5:8). • When believers nurture that innocence, they reflect God’s intent (Philippians 2:15). • Leading them into sin corrupts that purity and defies God’s protective design. How Matthew 18:6 Connects the Two • Humility values and protects the weak; pride exploits them. • Innocence is the quality humility seeks to preserve. • Therefore, any act that trips up a “little one” attacks both virtues simultaneously. Supporting Passages • Mark 9:42 and Luke 17:2 echo the millstone warning, underscoring its importance. • Romans 14:13: “...resolve never to put a stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother.” • 1 Corinthians 8:12: Causing a weaker believer to stumble is sin “against Christ Himself.” • James 4:6: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble”—pride invites opposition, humility attracts grace. Practical Takeaways • Guard your influence: lifestyles, words, and online presence all shape others’ faith. • Encourage growth: build up weaker believers with patience and truth (Ephesians 4:29). • Model humility: admit faults quickly; seek forgiveness openly. • Protect innocence: provide environments—home, church, friendships—where purity can thrive. • Remember accountability: the millstone imagery reminds us that Christ defends His “little ones.” |
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