What is the meaning of Matthew 18:10?

See that you do not look down on any of these little ones

“See that you do not look down on any of these little ones.” (Matthew 18:10a)

• Jesus has just placed a child in the midst of the disciples (Matthew 18:2-6). The “little ones” are literal children and, by extension, humble believers who mirror childlike faith (cf. Matthew 18:3-4).

• “Look down on” warns against any attitude of superiority, neglect, or contempt. Similar cautions appear in Romans 12:16 (“Do not be proud, but associate with the lowly”) and James 2:1-4, where favoritism toward the powerful is condemned.

• God measures greatness by humility and service (Mark 9:35-37); despising the vulnerable puts a person at odds with His priorities.

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For I tell you

“For I tell you” (Matthew 18:10b)

• This solemn phrase signals that Jesus is revealing divine truth, not mere opinion (cf. Matthew 5:18; John 3:3).

• Because He is the Son who knows the Father perfectly (Matthew 11:27), His assertion carries absolute authority.

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Their angels in heaven always see the face of My Father in heaven

“…that their angels in heaven always see the face of My Father in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10c)

• “Their angels” indicates a real, ongoing assignment of celestial beings to “little ones.” Psalm 91:11-12 speaks similarly: “For He will command His angels concerning you….”

• “Always see the face” describes direct, unhindered access to God’s throne (cf. Esther 1:14 for royal imagery; Revelation 8:2). Angels stand ready to receive His directives on behalf of those they guard (Hebrews 1:14).

• This reality underscores:

– The infinite worth God places on each child and humble believer.

– A warning: mistreating them invites divine response (cf. Matthew 18:6).

– Encouragement: believers are never out of heaven’s sight or care (Psalm 34:7; Acts 12:6-11).

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summary

Jesus commands His followers never to despise the vulnerable; every childlike believer matters profoundly to God. He backs the command with a glimpse into heaven: angels personally assigned to these “little ones” stand constantly before the Father, ready to act. Knowing this, we treat the least with honor, protection, and Christlike love, confident that heaven itself watches over them.