Understanding Matthew 18:4
Bible Verse: Matthew 18:4 - "Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."
Meaning and Interpretation
This brief yet profound verse from the Gospel of Matthew emphasizes the necessity of humility in the pursuit of spiritual greatness within the Kingdom of Heaven. The use of a “little child” illustrates the qualities of innocence, dependence, and simplicity that are essential in a believer’s attitude towards God.
Below are summarized insights from prominent public domain commentaries, including those of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.
Insights from Commentaries
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Matthew Henry:
Henry stresses the importance of humility in the Christian life, pointing out that a child exemplifies a level of trust and reliance on adults that believers should exhibit towards God. He notes that true greatness in heaven is not determined by wealth or status but by one's willingness to be humble before God.
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Albert Barnes:
Barnes explains that this verse delineates a fundamental Christian principle—namely, that the characteristics of humility and meekness are essential for entering the Kingdom of Heaven. He suggests that those who position themselves as lowly in spirit will be exalted by God.
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Adam Clarke:
Clarke elaborates on the nature of a child, indicating that children are free from the pride and self-sufficiency that often afflicts adults. He draws attention to Jesus’ teaching as a radical call to recognize one's spiritual poverty and need for divine grace.
Cross References
Matthew 18:4 can be linked to several other scriptures that reinforce its themes of humility and the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven:
- Luke 18:17: "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein." - This parallel emphasizes the need for childlike faith.
- James 4:10: "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up." - A call to humility mirroring the sentiment of Matthew 18:4.
- 1 Peter 5:5: "Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble." - Underscores the importance of humility in social and spiritual relationships.
- Philippians 2:3: "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves." - This verse advocates for a humble attitude toward others.
- Matthew 5:3: "Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." - Highlights the favored status of the humble before God.
- Matthew 23:12: "And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted." - A direct reinforcement of the principle outlined in Matthew 18:4.
- Mark 10:15: "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein." - Another emphasis on childlike faith as paramount for salvation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Matthew 18:4 presents a crucial teaching within the Gospel concerning the nature of true greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven. By drawing upon the qualities of children—innocence, humility, and complete dependence—Jesus challenges believers to adopt these attributes in their spiritual walk. The interconnectedness of this verse with others provides a rich framework for understanding Humility in the Scriptures.
