Matthew 18:1-4
Chapter 18
1
At that time, the disciples approached Jesus and asked him:
“Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”
Who Is the Most Important
2
Then Jesus called a small child, placed the child in the middle of the disciples
3
and said: “I assure you that unless you change and become like little children, you cannot enter the kingdom of heaven.
4
Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven,
Commentaries
Who Is the Most Important? – Radicalism in the Face of Sin.
This chapter presents the fourth of Jesus’ five major discourses. It is mainly directed at the disciples and offers guidance for a divided community. Tensions between different groups and issues of coexistence are evident. In Matthew’s Gospel, the word “little” does not only refer to children. Little ones include all humble and simple people who, through their straightforward way of life, have chosen to follow Jesus with complete radicalism. The Christian community, especially its leaders, must be careful not to underestimate the importance and contributions of these individuals.