Thanks. ......... I think. :)
How do you read these similar verses:
Here is the basic context of the passage:
Matt 18:1-4 : 1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" 2 He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3 And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
While Jesus knew immediately that their question was idiotic, He apparently believed that it was honest, so He gave them a straightforward answer. Jesus said, in essence, that Godly humility (and by extension recognition of God's sovereignty and Lordship) will result in going to Heaven. We are to have a child-like faith. However, by implication, those who are not humble by submitting to God will not even make it to Heaven.
The child was a tool used by Jesus to make a point. We should not be thinking of our ambitions, but rather on being loyal and humble servants to Him.
(Matt. 18:10) Again this can apply literally to believing children, or to all Christians generally who have child-like faith. We should treat each other well, as the angels who minister to us do (Heb. 1:14).
Again this can apply literally to believing children [ despise not one of these little ones ]
So Jesus is saying it's ok to despise non-believing children? At what age?
Except ye be converted, and become as little children..
Is Jesus saying the little one is converted or that the converted become as little children?