The Nugget:
Mat 18:6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. (KJV)
Mat 18:6 But whosoever shall offend one of these little ones who believe in me, it were profitable for him that a great millstone had been hanged upon his neck and he be sunk in the depths of the sea. (Darby)
Mat 18:6 “These little ones believe in me. It would be best for the person who causes one of them to lose faith to be drowned in the sea with a large stone hung around his neck. (God’s Word translation)
The Context:
Mat 18:1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?
Mat 18:2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
Mat 18:3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Mat 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Mat 18:5 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
Mat 18:6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. (KJV)
My Comment:
Jesus pointedly emphasized the seriousness of doing anything to lead a child astray. But “child” may be taken in a broader sense than just a young child. What Jesus says applies to leading believers of any age astray by causing them to lose faith in Him.
In the immediate preceding context, Jesus, in answer to the question, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”, instructs us that we must be converted and become as little children, and receive Christ in faith believing.
The context which follows is especially instructive. I’ll likely include that in my next post.