What does Matthew 18:6 mean?

Explanation

The verse Matthew 18:6 from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible contains a stern warning from Jesus about causing others, especially those who believe in Him, to stumble in their faith.

The phrase "one of these little ones" is often interpreted to mean children or new believers – individuals who are vulnerable or young in their spiritual journey. The offense (causing to stumble) suggests leading them into sin or away from faith.

Jesus uses a powerful metaphor of a ‘millstone’ tied around one’s neck.

In ancient times, a millstone was a large, heavy stone used to grind grains.

It was so heavy that it would be impossible to swim or be rescued with it hung around one's neck, thus, ensuring a certain drowning if one was cast into the sea.

This hyperbolic language emphasizes the gravity of the sin of leading others astray and suggests that such an act is extremely reprehensible in the eyes of God, to the extent that a swift and severe punishment would be preferable.

Historical Context

During the time when Jesus spoke these words, He was teaching His disciples in a private setting (as per the broader context of Matthew 18).

Millstones were common and essential for daily life in agrarian societies.

Using this imagery would resonate deeply with Jesus' contemporaries, who recognized the weight and destructive potential of a millstone.

The act of being drowned in the sea with a millstone around one’s neck may also imply a form of capital punishment. Although this was not a Jewish mode of execution, the audience would understand the seriousness of the consequence.

Theological Insights

Theologians have interpreted this verse in various ways.

Some view it as a clear call to protect and nurture the faith of new believers and children. Others see it as a stark reminder that God’s heart is for the vulnerable, and His judgment against those who harm them is severe.

Additionally, the verse can be seen to align with the theme of personal responsibility for one’s actions and the impact they have on others, particularly those less mature or weaker in the faith.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Matthew 18:6 can serve as a guideline for behavior towards others, especially those who look up to us for guidance or those who are impressionable. In everyday life, this can be applied by:

• Ensuring that one’s actions and words do not lead others to sin.
• Being mindful of the influence one has over children and new believers.
• Taking a proactive approach to protect the vulnerable from spiritual harm.
• Serving as a positive role model in faith and conduct.

Cross-References

• Mark 9:42 (“And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a stone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.”)
• Luke 17:2 (“It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.”)
• 1 Corinthians 8:12 (“But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ.”)

Language Study

The original Greek term for "offend" in this verse is "σκανδαλίσῃ" (skandalisē), which is where the English word 'scandalize' comes from. It means to cause to sin or to put a stumbling block or impediment in someone's way that they trip and fall.

The term "little ones" in Greek is "μικρῶν" (mikrōn), which not only can refer to young children but also to those who are humble or of lowly status, suggesting a broader application beyond age.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient cultures, causing harm to the innocent was often met with severe consequences.

The notion of divine retribution for harming the innocent can be found in other religious texts and cultural lore.

The use of hyperbole to express the severity of punishment is also a common literary tool across different traditions.

Scientific Perspectives

The use of the millstone imagery in this verse does not have a direct scientific correlation but serves as a figurative expression.

The overwhelming weight of a millstone effectively describes the inevitability of drowning, a fact understandable from a scientific standpoint regarding buoyancy and gravitational force.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have offered various commentaries on Matthew 18:6.

Many emphasize the utmost responsibility of individuals in their influence over others, particularly regarding faith and morality.

John Calvin, a Reformation-era theologian, discusses this verse in terms of how grave it is to cause offense to those who are weak in faith.

Matthew Henry's commentary underscores the duty of care that must be observed by those in positions of authority or influence.

Contemporary scholars often focus on the responsibility of the church and its members to safeguard the faith of those within their community.