Results 1 - 6 of 6
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Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Ordered by Verse | ||||||
Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
1 | Do all little ones believe? | Matt 18:6 | charis | 66444 | ||
Dear Cyclist, Greetings in the name of Jesus! Every commentary I have at my disposal identifies the 'little ones' in Matthew 18:6 as disciples of Christ, humble and modest, meek and lowly. This is where I get the idea of 'dependent' on God the Father and Christ the Savior as a child is dependent on his parents. The context of the following verses speaks of 'sheep' and the 'stumbling blocks in life' and 'discipline among the brethren.' Therefore, these same commentators believe that the 'little ones' continues to be the followers of Christ. Some 'public' denominational teachings and authors of Sunday School material like to say that Matthew 18:10 is speaking of 'personal, guardian angels' assigned to each and every child. However, most scholars ('internal' denominational teaching?) agree that indeed the 'little ones' in all of Matthew 18 are faithful Christians. Without meaning to be crude, I must say that if every child has a 'guardian angel,' then these angels are not very effective in keeping all children from sin or from falling into satan's clutches. :-( To many readers, this may 'pop their bubble' about these verses. I'm truly sorry. But the truth about children should encourage us all the more to bring them up in Christ Jesus, honoring the faith and discipline of their parents. Just one man's opinion... In Christ Jesus, charis |
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2 | Are little ones trusting, easily led | Matt 18:6 | cwade | 66477 | ||
Charis, could this verse be referring to "small" believers who to some might seem insignificant? By "small" believer I mean people who are very trusting by nature and easily led. Based on the context (in which Jesus was answering the disciples question about who among them was greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven), it seems to me that He was pointing out that even the most simple of people are just as important to God. He was also cautioning against causing those trusting, easily led "small" believers to lose faith. I think this would be in line with His statement about their angels. God has angels available to minister to all people, and the "little one's" angels are just as important messengers in that they stand before God ready to deliver His message and minister to the "small" believer. Just a thought. Forgive the intrusion into yours and Cyclist discussion. It was too intriguing to not comment on. |
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3 | Are little ones trusting, easily led | Matt 18:6 | charis | 66485 | ||
Dear cwade, Greetings in the name of Jesus! My friend, not intrusion whatsoever! After all, this is a public forum! :-) I see what you are saying, but I will have to say that I think that the 'little ones' are actually faithful, dedicated believers, regardless of their significance or maturity 'level.' Some commentators even go as far as labeling them disciples or ministers. (I use "e-Sword" in my computer [last count, 13 commentaries], and "The Pulpit Commentary [23 volumes]" and 5 different Study Bibles) My own experience in Christ tells me that the faithful Christian becomes 'less complicated' with maturity. Though I have not yet 'arrived' at striving to be humble, it is my earnest goal. One more 'food-for-thought' comment. You asked if 'as children' might mean "...people who are very trusting by nature and easily led." I think that dedicated, faithful Christians, regardless of their 'maturity,' are NOT "very FOOLISH by nature and easily MISLED." Just because they might be 'caused to stumble' does not necessarily mean they are stupid and easily duped. I still think that the 'dependent on God' aspect is more in keeping with the context of this passage, rather than 'cute an innocent.' For instance, when we 'turn the other cheek,' we should be well aware that we will probably get smacked again. But willing anyway! It's usually not like the movies when the 'offender' breaks down in repentance seeing our humility! So, saints... "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves." Matthew 10:16 NASB. I appreciate your comments. I know that my thoughts could 'rub the wrong way.' I just look at these Scriptures and see that they speak to 'converted' disciples of Christ. BTW, How are things in 'Joh-jah?' My big brother lives near Ellijay, Nohth Joh-jah! :-) In Christ Jesus, charis |
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4 | Are little ones trusting, easily led | Matt 18:6 | cwade | 66522 | ||
Dearest Charis, your response did not offend in any way. I am truly, openly seeking and welcome all viewpoints on Scripture. I have not come to a definiite conclusion yet as to my personal inerpretation of this verse and look forward to following continued dialogue between you and brother Cyclist. I will admit it has been hard for me to "break from tradition" on this verse and be open to the interpretation that little ones are not children, but your posts are helping me be open to that. My question was truly a question asking for your opinion and I appreciate the response. btw: We had a huge rainstorm in Ga. last night! | ||||||
5 | Are little ones trusting, easily led | Matt 18:6 | charis | 66531 | ||
Dear cwade, Greetings in Jesus' name! Just a quick note, as it's pretty late. I don't know if I believe that it requires a 'break from tradition' to say these 'little ones' are faithful disciples of Christ. Many of the commentaries I use are pretty old (after all, they are free, as is e-Sword!). Also, much hisory I read tells me that the norm is to consider children as the 'seed of Adam.' Please note that I trust, as most Christians do, that the children of a believer are held in a special grace. They are not yet capable of taking the responsibility of serving Jesus, yet God honors the parent(s) faith. (1 Corinthians 7:14) My friend, I believe that the 'innocent children' idea is fairly recent. I cannot say when or where it became 'popular,' but it does not seem to be the norm, say, 100 years ago. In any case, my opinion. So far, nobody has given me Biblical confirmation of the 'all children are innocent' theory. :-) In Christ Jesus, charis |
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6 | Are little ones trusting, easily led | Matt 18:6 | cwade | 66532 | ||
Thank you brother. I misspoke. I should have said the break from "public denominational teaching" instead of break from tradition. | ||||||