What is the meaning of Luke 18:17? Truly I tell you, - Jesus prefaces His statement with a solemn affirmation, underscoring that what follows carries divine authority (cf. John 3:11; Revelation 3:14). - This “amen” formula signals the certainty of the truth being declared, inviting listeners to receive it without reservation. anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God - The kingdom is God’s reign now in the hearts of believers and ultimately in Christ’s future rule (Luke 11:20; Revelation 11:15). - “Receive” highlights that the kingdom is a gift, not a human achievement (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). - The negative frame warns that refusal or failure to receive excludes a person from salvation (John 1:12; Hebrews 4:2). like a little child - Children exemplify humble dependence, trusting obedience, and an absence of self-righteous claim—qualities God commends (Matthew 18:3-4; Psalm 131:2). - Their readiness to believe those they trust mirrors the faith God desires toward His promises (Romans 4:20-21). - Far from childishness, this is childlikeness: simple, surrendered confidence in the Father’s goodness (James 1:17). will never enter it. - Entrance is either granted or barred; neutrality is impossible (John 3:5; 14:6). - “Never” (literally “by no means”) conveys absolute exclusion—underscoring the urgency of possessing childlike faith (Hebrews 2:3; 12:25). - The warning also comforts believers: those who do embrace the kingdom with such trust are assured full access (1 Peter 1:3-5). summary Jesus insists that the only doorway into His kingdom is humble, trusting, childlike faith—relinquishing self-reliance, receiving His rule as a gift, and resting in the Father’s character. Those who come this way are welcomed; those who refuse cannot enter. |
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