Matthew 18

“Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” (1). Jesus answered the disciples’ question by saying that “whoever takes the lowly position” of a child is the greatest. The nature of childhood – vulnerable, low status, needing help – exemplified “greatness” in God’s kingdom, rather than the worldly marks of wealth, achievement, and dominance over others. This kingdom value of humility was reflected in the parable of the unforgiving servant (21-35). Although he was forgiven a huge debt, he did not see his fellow servants as equally deserving of mercy.

“Unless you change and become like little children ...” (3). Our “natural” tendency may be to compete for greatness, but Jesus calls us to be citizens of the kingdom of heaven.