Lesson 4126

 (Lesson 4126)(05-10-23) Matthew 18:1-4

    “At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”

    Today’s quote had been, and continues to be, one of the most misinterpreted lessons that can be found in the New Testament.

     Pay close attention to what Jesus actually said when asked, “who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven”. He responded, “Except YE, (NOT CHILDREN) be converted, and become AS little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.”

    Using the innocence of a child, Jesus was clearly referring to those adults of low social stature who believed in Him. They are those who would be “the greatest” in the kingdom of heaven. The child Jesus put upon His knee, was NOT the subject of the lesson, but rather, was simply a reference.

    Too many people believe this lesson is referring to the treatment of little children. IT IS NOT. It is referring to a spiritual rebirth whereby an adult approaches the doctrine of Jesus Christ as naively and innocent as a child.