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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] |
Subject: Jesus' thoughts on child abuse |
Bible Note: WOS, I actually don't think there is a misinterpretation per se. I think the text does refer primarily to discipleship but can also be applied to the subject of child abuse specifically or, in general, to the subject of children. There are many verses that, although having a specific interpretation, allow for a wider application without damaging the verse itself or its intended meaning. As such, I don't believe I am applying the verse in question incorrectly or corrupting it. The fact is God loves his children, whether they are figuratively mentioned as those who are his disciples or, literally, children; and to stumble either one is to incur his wrath and find the stumblers would be better of with a "noose around the neck and thrown into the sea" bit. Love covers a multitude of "misinterpretations". Therefore, as far as this particular issue is concerned with the verse, I respectfully submit that much ado about nothing is being made. P.S. I enjoy Barnes' Notes but I don't see how his warning can be applied to my understanding and application of Matt 18:6 as I am not "fritter(ing) away its (specific) meaning" but only widening its application in a manner consistent with the heart and spirit of the verse. |