Greatest in the Kingdom

Matthew 18:1-4 ESV

“At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”

Jesus was explaining to the disciples about what was most important to the King in the Kingdom of heaven. He pointed to a child. Often children in the first century held no true honor, nor were they considered to be examples to adults. Often in the first century children were in the background and were held in low regard. Jesus told the disciples unless you TURN (change your way of thought) and become like children, you will never enter the Kingdom, (or you will not be able to be a part of the kingdom ways).

Jesus’s viewpoint of children is not our thoughts today. Jesus saw children as innocent. humble, unassuming. Jesus was saying to the disciples, until you can get pride out of your hearts and become innocent, humble and ready to receive instructions from the Father, you will never be able to understand what the kingdom means.

Prayer:

Lord, this example and teaching can only be received by willing hearts and minds. I pray this morning that we are willing and well able to receive from you this message of the kingdom and how we can become a part of that kingdom. In Your name Lord Jesus, Amen!