Matthew 18:4 Meaning and Explanation
“Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →True greatness belongs to the one who humbles himself like a child.
What Does Matthew 18:4 Mean?
Now Jesus answers the original question directly. They asked who is greatest; He says it is whoever humbles himself like this little child. The path up, in His kingdom, runs downward through lowliness.
Humility here is not a pose but a settled willingness to take the low place, to make oneself small. The child does not strive for status; the child simply trusts and depends. Those who do the same are counted greatest by the only measure that finally matters. Jesus Himself would walk this very road, humbling Himself to the lowest place, and so He teaches what He would also live.
Matthew 18:4 in the Original Language
tapeinoo (ταπεινόω), 'humble' -- to make low, to bring oneself down from any claim to height.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 18:4
What does Matthew 18:4 mean?
True greatness belongs to the one who humbles himself like a child.