5 And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.
5 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
5 "Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me,
5 What's more, when you receive the childlike on my account, it's the same as receiving me.
5 Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.
5 "And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Matthew 18:5
Commentary on Matthew 18:1-6
(Read Matthew 18:1-6)
Christ spoke many words of his sufferings, but only one of his glory; yet the disciples fasten upon that, and overlook the others. Many love to hear and speak of privileges and glory, who are willing to pass by the thoughts of work and trouble. Our Lord set a little child before them, solemnly assuring them, that unless they were converted and made like little children, they could not enter his kingdom. Children, when very young, do not desire authority, do not regard outward distinctions, are free from malice, are teachable, and willingly dependent on their parents. It is true that they soon begin to show other dispositions, and other ideas are taught them at an early age; but these are marks of childhood, and render them proper emblems of the lowly minds of true Christians. Surely we need to be daily renewed in the spirit of our minds, that we may become simple and humble, as little children, and willing to be the least of all. Let us daily study this subject, and examine our own spirits.