What does Matthew 18:3 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 18:3 points to the necessity of a fundamental change in a person's nature and perspective in order to enter the kingdom of heaven.

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of humility, simplicity, and a willingness to be taught, as he compares these qualities to those of a child.

The original Greek word translated as "converted" is "στρέφω" (strepho), which means to turn or to change direction.

The implication is that to experience God's kingdom, one needs to undergo a transformation that aligns them with the qualities that children represent: trust, openness, and a sense of dependency.

Historical Context

At the time of Jesus' ministry, Jewish society was highly structured and stratified.

People held varying degrees of power and social status.

When the disciples asked Jesus who would be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:1), they were likely thinking about status and hierarchy.

In response, Jesus turns societal values upside down by placing a child in the midst of them, asserting that humility and childlikeness are the key ingredients to being part of His kingdom.

This teaching challenged the prevailing assumptions about greatness and authority.

Theological Insights

Different theological traditions have approached the verse with varying emphases:

• Evangelical Perspective: Generally, evangelicals stress the necessity of being "born again,” paralleling this verse with John 3:3, where Jesus talks about being born of water and Spirit.
• Catholic Perspective: Catholic theology also sees this as a call to spiritual transformation but often ties it to the grace received through the sacraments, including Baptism and Confirmation.
• Orthodox Perspective: The Eastern Orthodox tradition might see this verse in light of "theosis," the process of becoming more like God in holiness.
• Liberal Theology: Some theologians in more liberal traditions might emphasize the ethical lessons of the verse, promoting child-like qualities as a model for creating just and peaceful communities.

Practical Applications

The teachings in Matthew 18:3 have relevant applications in everyday life, such as:

• Encouraging adults to approach life with the same wonder and receptivity to learning that children exemplify.
• Abandoning pride, which can hinder personal growth and relationships with others as well as with God.
• Fostering a sense of dependence on God, which can lead to greater faith and trust in His providence.

Cross-References

• Mark 10:15: "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein."
• Luke 18:17: "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."
• 1 Peter 2:2: "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:"

Language Study

• Converted (στρέφω - strepho): To turn, to change or convert.
• Little children (παιδίον - paidion): A young child, infant; metaphorically used to describe someone who is innocent or humble.
• Kingdom of heaven (βασιλεία τῶν οὐρανῶν - basileia tōn ouranōn): The rule of God, recognized in the heart of man.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many cultures and religions, childlike qualities are revered and often associated with wisdom.

For example, in Hinduism, there's the concept of "child-god" like Krishna, who exhibits both innocence and divine knowledge.

Similarly, Zen Buddhism values the "beginner's mind" - an attitude of openness and lack of preconceptions, similar to that of a child.

Scientific Perspectives

Developmental psychology might support the idea that children naturally exhibit traits such as trust, humility, and the capacity for wonder.

While the verse isn't speaking to scientific facts, understanding child development can reinforce the value of these qualities, which are beneficial for emotional and social well-being.

Commentaries

• John Calvin: Calvin interprets this verse as a call to simplicity and modesty, a rejection of ambition and arrogance.
• William Barclay: Barclay emphasizes the trust and humility of a child, noting the danger of knowledge and sophistication that can bring about pride.
• Matthew Henry: Henry suggests that this conversion and child-likeness involve a transformation back to the original innocence and purity of character that God intended for humanity.