Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” New Living Translation I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” English Standard Version Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” Berean Standard Bible Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Berean Literal Bible Truly I say to you⁺, whoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall never enter into it.” King James Bible Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein. New King James Version Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” New American Standard Bible Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.” NASB 1995 “Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.” NASB 1977 “Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it at all.” Legacy Standard Bible Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Amplified Bible I assure you and most solemnly say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God [with faith and humility] like a child will not enter it at all.” Berean Annotated Bible Truly I tell you⁺, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God {Theou} like a little child will never enter it. Christian Standard Bible Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Holman Christian Standard Bible I assure you: Whoever does not welcome the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” American Standard Version Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall in no wise enter therein. Contemporary English Version You will never get into God's kingdom unless you enter it like a child!" English Revised Version Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall in no wise enter therein. GOD'S WORD® Translation I can guarantee this truth: Whoever doesn't receive the kingdom of God as a little child receives it will never enter it." Good News Translation Remember this! Whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it." International Standard Version I tell all of you with certainty, whoever doesn't receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never get into it at all." NET Bible I tell you the truth, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will never enter it." New Heart English Bible Truly, I tell you, whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child, he will in no way enter into it." Webster's Bible Translation Verily I say to you, Whoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, shall in no wise enter into it. Weymouth New Testament I tell you in solemn truth that, whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child will certainly not enter it." Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleTruly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” World English Bible Most certainly, I tell you, whoever doesn’t receive God’s Kingdom like a little child, he will in no way enter into it.” Literal Translations Literal Standard Versiontruly I say to you, whoever may not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child, may not enter into it.” Berean Literal Bible Truly I say to you⁺, whoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall never enter into it.” Young's Literal Translation verily I say to you, Whoever may not receive the reign of God as a little child, may not enter into it.' Smith's Literal Translation Truly I say to you, Whoever should not receive the kingdom of God as a young child should not enter into it. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAmen, I say to you: Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a child, shall not enter into it. Catholic Public Domain Version Amen, I say to you, whoever will not accept the kingdom of God like a child, will not enter into it.” New American Bible Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” New Revised Standard Version Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleTruly I say to you, He who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little boy will never enter into it. Aramaic Bible in Plain English “Amen, I say to you, whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God as a little boy shall not enter it.” NT Translations Anderson New TestamentVerily I say to you, Whoever shall not receive the kingdom of God, as a little child, shall in no way enter into it. Godbey New Testament Haweis New Testament Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. Mace New Testament I declare unto you, he that does not come with the disposition of a child shall not enter into the kingdom of God. Weymouth New Testament I tell you in solemn truth that, whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child will certainly not enter it." Worrell New Testament Worsley New Testament Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Jesus Blesses the Children…16But Jesus called the children to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 17Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 18Then a certain ruler asked Him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”… Cross References Truly I tell you, Matthew 19:23 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Truly I tell you, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 16:28 Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” Matthew 24:34 Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have happened. anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God Mark 10:15 Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Hebrews 12:28 Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. Luke 12:32 Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom. like a little child Matthew 18:3-4 “Truly I tell you,” He said, “unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. / Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Mark 10:14 But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and told them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Matthew 19:14 But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” will never enter it.” Matthew 5:20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Acts 14:22 strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. John 3:3 Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, Matthew 11:25 At that time Jesus declared, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. 1 Corinthians 14:20 Brothers, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be mature. Treasury of Scripture Truly I say to you, Whoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein. Psalm 131:1,2 A Song of degrees of David. LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me… Mark 10:15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. 1 Peter 1:14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: Jump to Previous Child Enter Kingdom Little Receive Reign Solemn Therein Truth Verily Way WiseJump to Next Child Enter Kingdom Little Receive Reign Solemn Therein Truth Verily Way WiseLuke 18 1. Of the importunate widow.9. Of the Pharisee and the tax collector. 15. Of Children brought to Jesus. 18. A ruler would follow Jesus, but is hindered by his riches. 28. The reward of those who leave all for his sake. 31. He foretells his death; 35. and restores a blind man to sight. Truly I tell you, This phrase is a solemn declaration by Jesus, emphasizing the importance and truth of what He is about to say. It is a common introduction in the Gospels when Jesus wants to highlight a significant teaching. The use of "truly" (Greek: "amen") underscores the certainty and authority of His words, reflecting His divine insight and the weight of His message. anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Persons / Places / Events 1. Jesus ChristThe central figure in this passage, Jesus is teaching His disciples and the crowd about the nature of the kingdom of God. 2. Children Representing innocence, humility, and dependence, children are used by Jesus as an example of the attitude required to enter the kingdom of God. 3. Disciples Followers of Jesus who are present during this teaching, learning about the values of the kingdom. 4. The Kingdom of God A central theme in Jesus' teachings, representing God's reign and rule, both in the present and future fulfillment. Teaching Points Childlike FaithEmbrace a faith characterized by trust, innocence, and dependence on God, much like a child's trust in their parents. Humility and Dependence Recognize our need for God in every aspect of life, acknowledging that we cannot enter the kingdom through our own efforts. Simplicity in Belief Approach God with a simple, sincere heart, free from the complications and doubts that often accompany adult reasoning. Openness to Learning Be willing to learn and grow in faith, maintaining a teachable spirit like that of a child eager to learn. Receptivity to God's Kingdom Cultivate a heart that is open and receptive to the values and principles of God's kingdom, ready to accept His rule and reign. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Luke 18:17?2. How can we receive the kingdom of God like a child today? 3. What qualities of children should we emulate to enter God's kingdom? 4. How does Luke 18:17 connect with Matthew 18:3 on childlike faith? 5. In what ways can childlike humility impact our daily spiritual walk? 6. How can we cultivate a childlike trust in our relationship with God? 7. What does Luke 18:17 mean by "receive the kingdom of God like a little child"? 8. How does Luke 18:17 challenge adult perspectives on faith and belief? 9. Why is childlike faith emphasized in Luke 18:17? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Luke 18? 11. Will a little child lead them? 12. How did Jesus respond to children approaching him? 13. Does Luke 18:15-17 contradict any Old Testament teachings about children and divine acceptance? 14. What does 'kingdom of God' mean in Luke 17:20? What Does Luke 18:17 Mean Truly I tell you,- Jesus prefaces His statement with a solemn affirmation, underscoring that what follows carries divine authority (cf. John 3:11; Revelation 3:14). - This “amen” formula signals the certainty of the truth being declared, inviting listeners to receive it without reservation. anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God - The kingdom is God’s reign now in the hearts of believers and ultimately in Christ’s future rule (Luke 11:20; Revelation 11:15). - “Receive” highlights that the kingdom is a gift, not a human achievement (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). - The negative frame warns that refusal or failure to receive excludes a person from salvation (John 1:12; Hebrews 4:2). like a little child - Children exemplify humble dependence, trusting obedience, and an absence of self-righteous claim—qualities God commends (Matthew 18:3-4; Psalm 131:2). - Their readiness to believe those they trust mirrors the faith God desires toward His promises (Romans 4:20-21). - Far from childishness, this is childlikeness: simple, surrendered confidence in the Father’s goodness (James 1:17). will never enter it. - Entrance is either granted or barred; neutrality is impossible (John 3:5; 14:6). - “Never” (literally “by no means”) conveys absolute exclusion—underscoring the urgency of possessing childlike faith (Hebrews 2:3; 12:25). - The warning also comforts believers: those who do embrace the kingdom with such trust are assured full access (1 Peter 1:3-5). summary Jesus insists that the only doorway into His kingdom is humble, trusting, childlike faith—relinquishing self-reliance, receiving His rule as a gift, and resting in the Father’s character. Those who come this way are welcomed; those who refuse cannot enter. Verse 17. - Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein. Jesus here reminds men that if they hope to enter the kingdom, it must be in the spirit of children, who never think of putting forward any claim of merit or paying any price for kindness showed them. His late parable of the Pharisee and publican was evidently in the Master's mind when he said this.Parallel Commentaries ... Greek Trulyἀμὴν (amēn) Hebrew Word Strong's 281: Of Hebrew origin; properly, firm, i.e. trustworthy; adverbially, surely. I tell λέγω (legō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular Strong's 3004: (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. you, ὑμῖν (hymin) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. if ἂν (an) Particle Strong's 302: A primary particle, denoting a supposition, wish, possibility or uncertainty. anyone ὃς (hos) Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 3739: Who, which, what, that. does not receive δέξηται (dexētai) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Middle - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 1209: To take, receive, accept, welcome. Middle voice of a primary verb; to receive. the τὴν (tēn) Article - Accusative Feminine Singular Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. kingdom βασιλείαν (basileian) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular Strong's 932: From basileus; properly, royalty, i.e. rule, or a realm. of God Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular Strong's 2316: A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. like ὡς (hōs) Adverb Strong's 5613: Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner. a little child, παιδίον (paidion) Noun - Nominative Neuter Singular Strong's 3813: Neuter diminutive of pais; a childling, i.e., an infant, or a half-grown boy or girl; figuratively, an immature Christian. he will never enter εἰσέλθῃ (eiselthē) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 1525: To go in, come in, enter. From eis and erchomai; to enter. it.” αὐτήν (autēn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Feminine 3rd Person Singular Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. Links Luke 18:17 NIVLuke 18:17 NLT Luke 18:17 ESV Luke 18:17 NASB Luke 18:17 KJV Luke 18:17 BibleApps.com Luke 18:17 Biblia Paralela Luke 18:17 Chinese Bible Luke 18:17 French Bible Luke 18:17 Catholic Bible NT Gospels: Luke 18:17 Most certainly I tell you whoever doesn't (Luke Lu Lk) |
    |