Topical Encyclopedia In the teachings of Jesus Christ, a profound emphasis is placed on the value and dignity of "little ones," a term that encompasses children and those who are humble in spirit. The Bible explicitly warns against showing contempt towards these individuals, highlighting the seriousness with which God regards their treatment.Biblical Foundation The directive against contempt for Christ's little ones is rooted in several passages of Scripture. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus articulates this principle with clarity. Matthew 18:10 states, "See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of My Father in heaven." This verse underscores the heavenly advocacy and protection afforded to the little ones, indicating their esteemed position before God. The Nature of Little Ones The term "little ones" is often understood to refer not only to children but also to those who exhibit childlike faith and humility. In Matthew 18:3-4 , Jesus says, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." This passage highlights the virtues of humility and simplicity, which are esteemed in the kingdom of God. Warnings Against Offense The Bible provides stern warnings against causing harm or leading astray these little ones. In Matthew 18:6 , Jesus declares, "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." This vivid imagery conveys the gravity of leading the innocent into sin or causing them spiritual harm. The Role of Angels The reference to angels in Matthew 18:10 suggests a divine guardianship over the little ones. The presence of angels who "always see the face of My Father in heaven" implies a direct line of communication and concern from God Himself. This serves as a reminder of the spiritual reality that surrounds and protects those who are often overlooked or undervalued by society. The Call to Humility and Care The teachings of Jesus call believers to adopt an attitude of humility and care towards the little ones. In Matthew 18:5 , Jesus states, "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in My name welcomes Me." This identification of Christ with the little ones elevates their status and calls for a response of love and respect from His followers. Implications for Believers For believers, the command to avoid contempt towards Christ's little ones is a call to embody the values of the kingdom of God. It challenges Christians to examine their attitudes and actions towards those who are vulnerable, ensuring that they reflect the love and compassion of Christ. The teachings of Jesus serve as a reminder that in God's economy, the humble and lowly are of great worth, and their treatment is a reflection of one's relationship with Him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 18:10Take heed that you despise not one of these little ones; for I say to you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library 1875-1877. Mrs. Way's Sewing --Class for Jewesses --Bible Flower ... Who is the Rich Man that Shall be Saved? Index of Subjects. Homilies on the Statues. The Sermon on the Mount. Homilies on Galatians and Ephesians. Index i. Of Subjects To Pammachius against John of Jerusalem. The Alarum Letter Lii. To Nepotian. Resources How should a Christian view misandry? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about cynicism? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God is not mocked? | GotQuestions.org Contempt: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Contempt of Ministers, is a Despising of God Contempt: A Characteristic of the Wicked Contempt: Causes Saints to Cry to God Contempt: Forbidden Towards: Believing Masters Contempt: Forbidden Towards: Christ's Little Ones Contempt: Forbidden Towards: Parents Contempt: Forbidden Towards: The Poor Contempt: Forbidden Towards: Weak Brethren Contempt: Forbidden Towards: Young Ministers Contempt: Ministers should Give No Occasion For Contempt: Pride and Prosperity Prompt To Contempt: Saints Sometimes Guilty of Contempt: Self-Righteous Prompts To Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: Authorities Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: Christ Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: Parents Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: Saints Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: The Afflicted Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: The Poor Contempt: Towards the Church: Often Punished Contempt: Towards the Church: Often Turned Into Respect Related Terms |
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