Matthew 18:1 - In that hour the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?”
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What does "Matthew 18:1" mean?
This verse from Matthew 18:1 sets the stage for Jesus to teach his disciples about humility and true greatness. Let's break it down:
"In that hour..." This suggests the question came up in the context of something Jesus had just been discussing or doing. It implies a specific situation prompted the disciples to ask this question.
"...the disciples came to Jesus, saying..." This highlights that the disciples are actively seeking guidance from Jesus. They are the ones who are confused or concerned about something.
"Who then is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?" This is the core of the verse. It reveals the disciples' concern with hierarchy and status, even within the context of the "Kingdom of Heaven" (which can be interpreted as both the earthly community of believers and the future eternal kingdom). They are focused on who will be the most important or powerful.
Therefore, the verse reveals the disciples' preoccupation with rank and status, even in a spiritual context. They are wondering who will have the highest position or most influence in the Kingdom of Heaven.
What does it imply?
Misunderstanding: It implies the disciples don't fully understand the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven. They are still thinking in terms of earthly power structures.
Jesus' Teaching Opportunity: It sets up Jesus for a teachable moment. He's about to correct their flawed understanding and offer a different perspective on greatness.
In the verses that follow, Jesus uses the example of a child to illustrate the importance of humility and service as the true path to greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven. He flips their expectations upside down. It's not about power and prestige, but about humility, faith, and serving others.
Matthew 18:1 - In that hour the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?”
What does "Matthew 18:1" mean?
This verse from Matthew 18:1 sets the stage for Jesus to teach his disciples about humility and true greatness. Let's break it down:
"In that hour..." This suggests the question came up in the context of something Jesus had just been discussing or doing. It implies a specific situation prompted the disciples to ask this question.
"...the disciples came to Jesus, saying..." This highlights that the disciples are actively seeking guidance from Jesus. They are the ones who are confused or concerned about something.
"Who then is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?" This is the core of the verse. It reveals the disciples' concern with hierarchy and status, even within the context of the "Kingdom of Heaven" (which can be interpreted as both the earthly community of believers and the future eternal kingdom). They are focused on who will be the most important or powerful.
Therefore, the verse reveals the disciples' preoccupation with rank and status, even in a spiritual context. They are wondering who will have the highest position or most influence in the Kingdom of Heaven.
What does it imply?
Misunderstanding: It implies the disciples don't fully understand the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven. They are still thinking in terms of earthly power structures.
Jesus' Teaching Opportunity: It sets up Jesus for a teachable moment. He's about to correct their flawed understanding and offer a different perspective on greatness.
In the verses that follow, Jesus uses the example of a child to illustrate the importance of humility and service as the true path to greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven. He flips their expectations upside down. It's not about power and prestige, but about humility, faith, and serving others.