Mark 9:37
Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
First-century hospitality culture practiced strategic welcoming of those who could reciprocate—hosting prominent people brought social advancement (Luke 14:12-14). Jesus' command to receive children (who couldn't reciprocate) was counter-cultural. The phrase 'in my name' (epi tō onomati mou, ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματί μου) means 'because of me' or 'for my sake.' Receiving someone 'in the name of' another was ancient agency concept—treating the representative as the sender. Jesus applies this to children, identifying Himself with the lowly. The Father-Son unity ('receiving me... receives him who sent me') echoes Jesus' teaching in John 5:23; 12:44-45; 13:20. This became foundational for Christian social ethics: Matthew 25:31-46 describes judgment based on treatment of 'the least of these.'
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus' identification with children and the lowly challenge our tendency to pursue relationships with influential people while neglecting the powerless?
- What does the connection between receiving children, receiving Christ, and receiving the Father teach about God's heart for the vulnerable?
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus taught: 'Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me' (ὃς ἂν ἓν τῶν τοιούτων παιδίων δέξηται ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματί μου, ἐμὲ δέχεται· καὶ ὃς ἂν ἐμὲ δέχηται, οὐκ ἐμὲ δέχεται ἀλλὰ τὸν ἀποστείλαντά με). Receiving children 'in my name' means welcoming them because of Jesus, valuing what He values. This becomes receiving Jesus Himself—how we treat the lowly reveals how we respond to Christ. Jesus then extends the chain: receiving Him is receiving the Father. This establishes profound Trinitarian unity—Father sends Son, Son sends disciples, and treatment of the least reflects response to the greatest. Service to insignificant people isn't charitable addition to following Jesus; it's essential expression of it. Faith without care for the vulnerable is dead (James 2:14-17).