New Testament

Matthew 18:5

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of welcoming and valuing children.

Author
Matthew the apostle
Written
Around AD 60-70
Genre
Gospel
Original Audience
Jewish Christians
CBTClear Bible Translation

And whoever welcomes a child like this in my name is welcoming me.

KJVKing James Version

And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of welcoming and valuing children. He uses the act of receiving a child as a metaphor for accepting Him. By welcoming a child, we are not just being kind; we are also acknowledging the presence of Jesus in that act. This highlights the significance of humility and the need to treat the least among us with love and respect. Jesus often spoke about the kingdom of heaven being for those who are humble like children. Therefore, this verse encourages us to embrace innocence, simplicity, and the pure-heartedness that children represent. It reminds us that our actions towards others, especially the vulnerable, reflect our relationship with Christ. When we show kindness and acceptance to those who may be overlooked, we are, in essence, honoring Jesus himself. This teaching challenges societal norms that often prioritize power and status over humility and service.

Key themes

Related topics

humility, service, acceptance

How to apply Matthew 18:5 to your life

To live out this teaching, we should actively seek opportunities to support and uplift children in our communities. This can be through volunteering, mentoring, or simply showing kindness. By doing so, we reflect Christ's love and embrace the values of the kingdom of heaven.

Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Matthew 18:5 mean?

Matthew 18:5 means that when we welcome and value children, we are also welcoming Jesus. It emphasizes the importance of treating the vulnerable with love and respect, reflecting our relationship with Christ.

What is the significance of welcoming children in Matthew 18:5?

The significance lies in the idea that welcoming children symbolizes humility and acceptance. It shows that our actions towards those who are often overlooked reveal our attitude towards Jesus.

How can I apply Matthew 18:5 in my life?

You can apply Matthew 18:5 by actively supporting children in your community through volunteering, mentoring, or simply being kind. This reflects Christ's love and the values of humility and service.

The Book of Matthew
Book Summary

The Book of Matthew

Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ

The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

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