Luke 18:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 18:17
17 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.
Chapter Context
Luke 18 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, fellowship, obedience. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 18:17
17 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.
Analysis
Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein—Jesus uses the solemn formula amēn legō hymin (ἀμὴν λέγω ὑμῖν), 'truly I tell you,' indicating critical importance. Hos ean mē dexētai tēn basileian tou theou hōs paidion (ὃς ἐὰν μὴ δέξηται τὴν βασιλείαν τοῦ θεοῦ ὡς παιδίον)—'whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a child.'
The key is dexētai (δέξηται)—'receive,' not achieve or earn. Ou mē eiselthē eis autēn (οὐ μὴ εἰσέλθῃ εἰς αὐτήν)—'shall in no wise enter it'—the strongest Greek negative, making entrance absolutely impossible apart from childlike reception. Children receive gifts because they can't earn them. Similarly, the kingdom cannot be achieved by adult works (Pharisee), but must be received through humble dependence (tax collector, infant).
Historical Context
Jesus's teaching radically challenged first-century assumptions. Judaism emphasized becoming a 'son of the commandments' (bar mitzvah) at age 13—achieving adult status through Torah obedience. Greek philosophy valued adult reason over childish naivety. Roman culture emphasized civic duty and achievement. Jesus reverses everything: adults must become like children—dependent, trusting, aware of their inability to contribute—to enter God's kingdom. This anticipates Paul's teaching that salvation is gift received by faith, not wages earned by works (Romans 6:23).
Reflection
- What specific childlike qualities are required to receive God's kingdom?
- How does the contrast between 'receiving as a child' and 'earning as an adult' illuminate the gospel?
- In what ways might your adult self-sufficiency hinder humble reception of God's kingdom?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Matthew 18:3, Mark 10:15
- Parallel theme: 1 Peter 1:14