Matthew 18:1–9: Humility like a Child
Introduction
In the last two chapters of the Gospel of Matthew, the looming shadow of the cross of Jesus has come more into focus. Whereas earlier Jesus taught about the kingdom, healed people, and sparred with religious leaders, now Jesus’ attention becomes fixed on the sufferings that he must endure at Jerusalem. As we enter a new chapter, Jesus begins to unpack the full meaning of going to the cross, even though he does not explicitly mention his sufferings throughout this chapter. In this first section within Matthew 18, Jesus redefines greatness in the kingdom of heaven as humility, for our great King humbled himself even by death on a cross.
Discussion Questions
1. What do you think may have led to the disciples’ question about greatness in the kingdom of heaven (v. 1)? How does Jesus’ calling to himself a child defy the disciples’ expectations about greatness (v. 2)? What about the failure to “turn and become like children” is so egregious that it could keep the disciples from the kingdom (v. 3)? What about humbling oneself like a child qualifies someone for greatness in the kingdom of heaven (v. 4)?
2. What does Jesus mean when he says that “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me” (v. 5)? What is the connection between the little child and Jesus? Why does God love children so much? How does our culture view children? What does it mean to cause a little one who believes in Jesus to stumble (v. 6)? Where else does Jesus give such a gruesome warning as he does here? Why do you think this is the case?
3. What does the word “woe” signify (v. 7a)? Why does Jesus acknowledge that stumbling blocks (ESV: “temptations to sin”) must come (v. 7b)? Why does the one who causes those stumbling blocks face such serious judgment (v. 7c)? What kind of sin is Jesus warning us to be so vigilant about in vv. 8–9? How should we interpret Jesus’ words about bodily mutilation? How should we apply Jesus’ words about bodily mutilation?
4. Why does greatness in the kingdom of heaven come through humility? How does humility like a little child conform us to the image of our great Savior? How did he humble himself (Phil. 2:8)? What exactly about humility does the One who existed in the form of God to prize it so much that he took upon himself the form of a servant? How does this teach us about humility for our lives? What is one area where your pride is keeping you from serving others in humility?
