Matthew Eighteen

Chapter 18

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=47&chapter=18&version=31

1 - 5 True Greatness

When the disciples asked Jesus who the greatest in the kingdom of heaven was, he replied, ". . . Unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Children are completely trusting of adults and we should be the same way toward God.

6 - 9 Temptations to Sin

Jesus warns against putting stumbling blocks in front of "little ones." I take this passage to mean don't try to put out the light in others' faith (esp. those new to the faith). (My notes say it could be "missionaries, disciples, recent converts, those of low social or economic status, or those weak in faith). Such "stumbling blocks" could be cynicism, being a bad example, etc.

10 - 14 The Parable of the Lost Sheep

God is concerned about all of us - especially those of us who are lost.

15 - 20 Disciplining Members of Church

This makes sense. If you have a problem with someone go to that person FIRST.

"Where two or three are gathered together, I am there among them." This is good for Bible study. Like I discovered from reading The Purpose Driven Life, Bible study is best in small groups. If the group gets too big, things become unwieldy. 2 or 3 is a good number.

21 - 22 Forgiveness

Peter asks how many times one should forgive, and Jesus says 77 [or 70 x 7 (490) depending on your translation]. At any rate, its a large number - just keep on forgivin'.

23 - 35 The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

Slave owes money; lord forgives him. Slave goes to another slave who owes him money; throws the guy in jail until he can pay him. lord finds out; TORTURES first slave until he can pay him back. 35: "So my heavenly Father will also do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother or sister from your heart."

The "from your heart" part is the hard part.

Question: I listed some ways we could be "stumbling blocks" to "little ones." What are some more?