New Testament
Luke 9:48
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then he told them, "Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me. And whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. The one who is the least among all of you — that person is truly great."
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And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.
What Luke 9:48 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of humility and the value of welcoming those who are vulnerable, like children. He teaches that receiving a child in His name is equivalent to receiving Him, and by extension, God who sent Him. This highlights the idea that greatness in God's kingdom is not measured by power or status, but by one's willingness to serve and care for the least among us. Jesus flips worldly notions of greatness on their head, showing that true greatness comes from humility and selflessness. By welcoming and valuing those who are often overlooked, we align ourselves with Jesus and His mission. This teaching encourages believers to reflect on their attitudes towards others, especially those who are marginalized or in need, and to recognize that every act of kindness towards them is significant in God's eyes.
How to apply Luke 9:48 to your life
To apply this teaching, look for opportunities to serve those who are often ignored or undervalued in society. Whether it's helping a child, volunteering at a local shelter, or simply showing kindness to someone in need, remember that these actions reflect your faith and commitment to Jesus.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Luke 9:48
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 9:48 teach about humility?
Luke 9:48 emphasizes that true greatness in God's kingdom is found in humility. Jesus teaches that welcoming a child, who represents the vulnerable and marginalized, is akin to welcoming Him. This suggests that those who serve and care for the least among us are truly great in God's eyes, contrasting with worldly views of power and status.
How can I apply the message of Luke 9:48 in my life?
To apply the message of Luke 9:48, actively seek ways to serve those who are often overlooked, such as children, the elderly, or the homeless. Volunteer your time, offer support, or simply show kindness to those in need. Each act of compassion reflects your faith and commitment to Jesus, reinforcing the idea that greatness comes from selflessness and service.
Why does Jesus mention children in this verse?
Jesus mentions children in Luke 9:48 to illustrate the importance of humility and the value of those who are often marginalized. Children symbolize vulnerability and dependence, and by highlighting them, Jesus teaches that greatness in His kingdom is measured by how we treat the least among us. This challenges societal norms that prioritize power and status.
What is the significance of being 'least' in God's kingdom?
Being 'least' in God's kingdom, as mentioned in Luke 9:48, signifies a position of humility and servanthood. It challenges the conventional understanding of greatness, suggesting that those who are willing to serve others, especially the marginalized, hold a special place in God's eyes. This teaching encourages believers to adopt a mindset of service and compassion.
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