Becoming Like Children, Loving Like Christ - Matthew 18:3–5
Scripture:
“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. Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me.” — Matthew
18:3–5 (ESV)
The disciples asked Jesus, “Who is
the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” They were expecting a name, a title, or
perhaps a role. Instead, Jesus called a child and placed the child in their
midst.
This is more than just a visual
illustration—it’s a radical redefinition of greatness.
1. Childlike Faith and Humility
Jesus tells us that unless we
“turn and become like children,” we will not even enter the kingdom, let
alone be considered great in it. This word “turn” implies a deep, internal
transformation—a complete reorientation of values.
Children don’t come with
achievements or status. They come with dependence, vulnerability, and trust.
They aren’t self-sufficient; they look to others to care for them. Jesus says
the greatest in the kingdom are those who humble themselves like a child—those
who stop pretending to be in control, who are teachable, and who simply trust
their Father.
We live in a world that encourages
self-promotion, competition, and independence. But Jesus invites us to
something far better: humility, dependence, and faith. In the kingdom of
heaven, the lowliest are the highest.
2. Receiving the
"Unvaluable"
But Jesus doesn’t stop there. He
says, “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me.” This
isn’t only about how we become like children—it’s about how we treat others who
are like children.
Here’s the challenge: we often
gravitate toward people who benefit us—people who are useful, influential, or
valuable in worldly terms. But a child does not “benefit” us in that way. A
child requires care, attention, and protection. They can’t pay us back. Jesus
is saying: The way you treat someone who has nothing to offer you reveals
whether you truly know Me.
Receiving someone "in Jesus'
name" means showing kindness to them because you recognize their worth in
God’s eyes—even if the world sees them as unimportant.
God welcomed us when we had
nothing to offer. He gave us grace, not because we earned it, but because He is
love. Now, He calls us to extend that same grace to others—especially those the
world overlooks.
Reflection Questions:
- Am I willing to embrace humility and dependence on
God, like a child?
- Do I value people based on what they can do for me,
or how God sees them?
- Who in my life might be considered “small” or
“unimportant,” whom God is calling me to receive and love?
Prayer:
Father, teach me to become like
a child again—humble, trusting, and dependent on You. Break down my pride and
self-sufficiency. Help me to see others through Your eyes, especially those who
cannot repay me or offer me anything in return. May I welcome them in Your
name, just as You welcomed me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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