Hello beloved of God,
Let’s look this interesting comparison Jesus makes between believers and children:
And He called a child to Himself and set him before them, and said, ‘Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever therefore will humble himself as this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’
Matthew 18:2-4
In illustrating the qualities of greatness in the kingdom of God, Jesus presents a child to the disciples, emphasizing the need for them to adopt childlike humility to enter the kingdom.
It’s crucial to recognize that in the traditions of the Pharisees, seeking recognition and status was common, often equating social position or illness with spiritual deficiency, as seen in John 9 with the blind man: “And His disciples asked Him, saying, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?’” — John 9:2
Contrary to this, Jesus uses a child to symbolize the true perspective of a genuine believer, highlighting that humility, not pride or wealth, leads to entrance into God’s kingdom.
Matthew Henry aptly comments:
“Children, when very young, do not desire authority, do not regard outward distinctions, are free from malice, are teachable, and willingly dependent on their parents.”
Matthew Henry
A child’s complete dependence on their parents mirrors the dependence a believer should have on God to enter His kingdom. Just as children are teachable and rely on their parents, believers must depend on God rather than worldly authority.
From this illustration, we can reflect on questions such as:
- Have I realized my complete dependence on God?
- Am I displaying childlike attributes in my walk of faith?
- In what areas of my life do I need to turn and be converted to be more like a child in showing more humility and submission to God?
May this reflection on God’s Word refresh our minds and deepen our understanding of salvation.
Blessings, Paul.
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