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NASB | Matthew 18:6 but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depth of the sea. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 18:6 but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble and sin [by leading him away from My teaching], it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone [as large as one turned by a donkey] hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea. [Mark 9:42; Luke 17:2] |
Bible Question:
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. |
Bible Answer: 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 |