◄ Matthew 18 ►
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The Greatest in the Kingdom (Mark 9:33–41; Luke 9:46–50) 1At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who then is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 2Jesus invited a little child to stand among them. 3“Truly I tell you,” He said, “unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5And whoever welcomes a little child like this in My name welcomes Me. Temptations and Trespasses (Mark 9:42–48; Luke 17:1–4) 6But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. 7Woe to the world for the causes of sin. These stumbling blocks must come, but woe to the man through whom they come! 8If your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life crippled or lame than to have two hands and two feet and be thrown into the eternal fire. 9And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell.a The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:1–7) 10See that you do not look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of My Father in heaven.b 12What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost? 13And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he rejoices more over that one sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray. 14In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish. A Brother Who Sins (Deuteronomy 19:15–21) 15If your brother sins against you,c go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. 16But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’d 17If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, regard him as you would a pagan or a tax collector. 18Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Ask in My Name (John 16:23–33) 19Again, I tell you truly that if two of you on the earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven. 20For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them.” The Unforgiving Servant (Romans 12:14–21) 21Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother who sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22Jesus answered, “I tell you, not just seven times, but seventy-seven times!e 23Because of this, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24As he began the settlements, a debtor owing ten thousand talentsf was brought to him. 25Since the man was unable to pay, the master ordered that he be sold to pay his debt, along with his wife and children and everything he owned. 26Then the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Have patience with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ 27His master had compassion on him, forgave his debt, and released him. 28But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii.g He grabbed him and began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ 29So his fellow servant fell down and begged him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you back.’ 30But he refused. Instead, he went and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay his debt. 31When his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed, and they went and recounted all of this to their master. 32Then the master summoned him and said, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave all your debt because you begged me. 33Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had on you?’ 34In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should repay all that he owed. 35That is how My heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.” Footnotes: 9 a Or the hell of fire; Greek the Gehenna of fire 10 b BYZ and TR include 11For the Son of Man came to save the lost; see Luke 19:10. 15 c NE and WH do not include against you. 16 d Deuteronomy 19:15 22 e Or seventy times seven; see Genesis 4:24 LXX 24 f A talent was worth about twenty years’ wages for a laborer. 28 g A denarius was customarily a day’s wage for a laborer; see Matthew 20:2. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Matthew 18 Summary The Greatest in the Kingdom Verses 1–5 – The Greatest in the Kingdom Jesus answers the disciples’ question about rank by placing a child among them. True greatness is measured by humble trust, not by status or achievements. Entering the kingdom requires “turning” and becoming like a child—dependent, teachable, and free of pride. Welcoming such “little ones” equals welcoming Christ Himself. Verses 6–9 – Warning About Causing Sin Jesus delivers stern warnings against leading believers, especially impressionable ones, into sin. He uses strong images: a millstone around the neck and fiery Gehenna. Anything that drags a person toward sin—hand, foot, or eye—is to be severed or cast away. Radical self-denial is better than eternal loss. Verses 10–14 – The Lost Sheep Believers are urged not to despise even one struggling disciple. The angels of these “little ones” constantly behold the Father’s face, showing their value. Like a shepherd leaving ninety-nine to rescue one straying sheep, God rejoices over every restoration. Verses 15–20 – Restoring a Brother Jesus lays out a clear, loving process for dealing with sin inside the fellowship: private confrontation, one or two witnesses if needed, presentation to the assembly, and ultimately separation if repentance is refused. Whatever the assembly binds or looses on earth is backed by heaven when carried out under Christ’s authority. Even two or three gathered in His name enjoy His presence. Verses 21–35 – The Unforgiving Servant Peter asks how often to forgive; Jesus answers “seventy-seven times,” signaling limitless grace. The parable of the king and two servants contrasts an unpayable debt forgiven and a trivial debt demanded. The merciless servant ends up imprisoned, illustrating that God’s forgiveness must flow through us to others. An unforgiving heart forfeits mercy. Matthew 18 illuminates the virtues of humility, forgiveness, and brotherly love in the Kingdom of Heaven. It presents vivid lessons on how to be the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven and how to live in harmony with others. Through powerful parables and teachings, Jesus provides a practical guide for living out these principles in everyday life. Historical and Cultural Background • Children in first-century Judea held no social status; placing a child at center overturns notions of honor. • Millstones were huge circular stones turned by donkeys; drowning with one tied to the neck was horrifying. • “Gehenna” was the valley south of Jerusalem once linked to idol sacrifices and later to burning refuse—an image of judgment. • Shepherds in the Judean hills commonly left a flock in the care of helpers to search for one lost animal. • Legal disputes in Israel were settled first by private discussion, then by two or three witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). • A talent equaled about twenty years’ wages; ten thousand talents was a sum one man could never repay. Humility and Childlike Faith (1-5) • Proverbs 3:34; James 4:6—God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. • Jesus models lowliness (Philippians 2:5-8). • Welcoming humble believers equals welcoming Christ (Matthew 10:40). Guarding the Vulnerable (6-9) • Ezekiel 34:2-10—God rebukes shepherds who harm the flock. • Personal sin must be hacked away decisively (Romans 8:13). • Eternal fire is real (Revelation 20:15). The Father’s Heart for Strays (10-14) • God’s care echoes Isaiah 40:11. • Angels assigned to believers underscore constant heavenly attention (Hebrews 1:14). • Joy in heaven over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:7). Steps of Restoration (15-20) 1. Go alone—aim for restoration, not embarrassment (Galatians 6:1). 2. Bring one or two—witnesses confirm facts. 3. Tell the assembly—the wider family pleads for repentance. 4. Treat as outsider—withdrawal hopes to awaken conscience (1 Corinthians 5:5). • “Binding and loosing” mirrors rabbinic terms for forbidding and permitting; when the church follows Jesus’ teaching, heaven agrees. • “Two or three” echoes Deuteronomy 19:15; Christ’s presence assures humble gatherings of His authority. The Call to Unlimited Forgiveness (21-35) • Seventy-seven (or seventy times seven) references Genesis 4:24—Lamech’s vow of revenge reversed into endless mercy. • Forgiven debt: 10,000 talents ≈ 200,000 years of labor. Small debt: 100 denarii ≈ three months’ wages. • Colossians 3:13—“Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” • Failure to forgive invites God’s discipline (Matthew 6:14-15). Practical Applications • Measure greatness by humility and service, not titles. • Protect young believers; never exploit their simplicity. • Confront personal sin ruthlessly; better lose a habit than lose your soul. • Go after wandering friends; no one is expendable. • Follow Jesus’ steps for conflict—private before public, always aiming for healing. • Live in the overflow of God’s mercy; keep no running ledger of offenses. Connections to the Broader Bible Story • Childlike dependence recalls Israel’s wilderness infancy (Hosea 11:1-4). • The shepherd motif culminates in Jesus, “the good shepherd” (John 10:11). • The assembly’s authority previews the Acts church practicing discipline (Acts 5:1-11). • The king settling accounts hints at final judgment when every person will give answer (Romans 14:10-12). Archaeological Notes • Stone millstones from Capernaum weigh up to 300 pounds—seen today near the ancient synagogue. • Excavations in the Hinnom Valley uncover layers of ash and pottery from continual fires, reinforcing Gehenna’s imagery. • First-century debtor prisons are documented in Egyptian papyri describing torture to collect unpaid debts. Key Verse Memory Aids • 18:3—“Unless you become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Picture a child at Jesus’ side. • 18:20—“Where two or three gather in My name, there am I with them.” Imagine an empty chair symbolizing His presence. • 18:35—“So My heavenly Father will do to each of you who does not forgive.” Link it with the canceled debt in the parable. Summary Challenge Humble yourself, guard others, pursue the wanderer, correct with love, forgive without limit—Matthew 18 frames community life under the King until He returns. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Luke 15:4-7 The parable of the lost sheep, emphasizing God's joy over one sinner who repents. Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you. Colossians 3:13 Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Teaching Points Childlike Humility Jesus begins by calling a child to Himself and saying, Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3). This emphasizes the importance of humility and dependence on God. The Value of Each Believer Jesus warns against causing others to stumble, highlighting the preciousness of each believer: If anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea (Matthew 18:6). The Parable of the Lost Sheep This parable illustrates God's relentless pursuit of the lost, showing His deep love and care for every individual: In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish (Matthew 18:14). Church Discipline and Reconciliation Jesus outlines a process for addressing sin within the church, emphasizing the goal of restoration: If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over (Matthew 18:15). The Power of Forgiveness The parable of the unmerciful servant teaches us about the necessity of forgiving others as we have been forgiven: This is how My heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart (Matthew 18:35). Practical Applications Embrace Humility Cultivate a childlike faith and humility, recognizing our dependence on God in all things. Guard Against Causing Others to Stumble Be mindful of our actions and words, ensuring they build up rather than hinder others in their faith journey. Seek the Lost Actively participate in reaching out to those who have strayed from the faith, reflecting God's heart for the lost. Practice Reconciliation Approach conflicts with a spirit of love and a desire for restoration, following the steps outlined by Jesus. Extend Forgiveness Regularly examine our hearts for unforgiveness and choose to forgive others as an act of obedience and reflection of God's grace. People 1. Jesus Jesus is the central figure in Matthew 18, teaching His disciples about humility, forgiveness, and the kingdom of heaven. He uses parables and direct instruction to convey His messages. The Greek name "Ἰησοῦς" (Iēsous) is derived from the Hebrew "Yeshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." 2. The Disciples The disciples are the followers of Jesus who are present during His teachings in this chapter. They ask questions and receive guidance from Jesus. The Greek term "μαθηταί" (mathētai) refers to learners or students. 3. The Little Child Jesus uses a little child as an example to teach about humility and the nature of those who belong to the kingdom of heaven. The Greek word "παιδίον" (paidion) refers to a young child or infant. 4. The Lost Sheep In the Parable of the Lost Sheep, Jesus describes a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to find the one that is lost, illustrating God's concern for each individual. The Greek term "πρόβατον" (probaton) is used for sheep. 5. The Brother Jesus speaks about a "brother" who sins against another, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness within the community of believers. The Greek word "ἀδελφός" (adelphos) can mean a literal brother or a fellow believer. 6. The Servant In the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant, Jesus tells of a servant who is forgiven a great debt by his master but refuses to forgive a fellow servant. The Greek term "δοῦλος" (doulos) means servant or slave. 7. The Fellow Servant This is the servant who owes a smaller debt to the unforgiving servant and is not shown mercy. The same Greek term "σύνδουλος" (syndoulos) is used, indicating a fellow servant or slave. 8. The Master/King In the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant, the master or king represents God, who shows mercy and expects His servants to do the same. The Greek word "κύριος" (kyrios) is used for master or lord. Places Matthew 18 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places. Instead, it focuses on teachings and parables of Jesus, addressing themes such as humility, forgiveness, and community discipline. Since there are no specific locations mentioned in this chapter, a numbered list of places cannot be provided. However, the chapter is rich in spiritual and moral teachings that are central to Christian doctrine. If you have any other questions or need further information on the themes or teachings in Matthew 18, feel free to ask! Events 1. The Greatest in the Kingdom (Matthew 18:1-5) The disciples ask Jesus who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus calls a little child to Him and says, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3). The Greek word for "change" (στραφῆτε, straphēte) implies a turning or conversion, emphasizing humility and dependence. 2. The Stumbling Blocks (Matthew 18:6-9) Jesus warns against causing others, especially children, to stumble in their faith. He states, "But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea" (Matthew 18:6). The term "stumble" (σκανδαλίσῃ, skandalisē) relates to causing someone to sin or fall away. 3. The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Matthew 18:10-14) Jesus tells the parable of the lost sheep, illustrating God's concern for every individual. He says, "In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish" (Matthew 18:14). The Greek word for "perish" (ἀπόληται, apolētai) conveys the idea of being lost or destroyed. 4. A Brother Who Sins (Matthew 18:15-20) Jesus provides instructions for dealing with a brother who sins against you. He outlines a process of private correction, involving witnesses, and, if necessary, bringing the matter before the church. He concludes with the promise, "For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them" (Matthew 18:20). 5. The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:21-35) Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive a brother who sins against him. Jesus responds with the parable of the unforgiving servant, emphasizing the necessity of forgiveness. He concludes, "This is how My Heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart" (Matthew 18:35). The Greek word for "forgive" (ἀφῆτε, aphēte) means to release or let go, highlighting the importance of genuine forgiveness. Lessons from Matthew 18 1. Embrace Childlike Humility In Matthew 18:3, Jesus tells us, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." This lesson is a call to embrace humility and trust, much like a child. Children are naturally dependent and open-hearted, qualities that we should strive to embody in our faith journey. By adopting a childlike spirit, we open ourselves to the grace and guidance of God, allowing Him to lead us with His wisdom. 2. The Greatest in the Kingdom Jesus highlights in Matthew 18:4, "Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." This verse teaches us that true greatness in God's eyes is not about power or status, but about humility and service. By putting others before ourselves and serving with a humble heart, we align with the values of the kingdom of heaven. 3. The Seriousness of Sin Matthew 18:6 warns, "But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea." This stark imagery underscores the seriousness of leading others into sin. It reminds us to be mindful of our actions and their impact on others, especially those who are young in faith. 4. The Parable of the Lost Sheep In Matthew 18:12-14, Jesus shares the parable of the lost sheep, illustrating God's relentless pursuit of each one of us. "In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish." This lesson reassures us of God's unwavering love and His desire for all to be saved. It encourages us to seek out and care for those who have strayed from the path. 5. The Power of Forgiveness Matthew 18:21-22 records Peter asking Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who sins against him. Jesus replies, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times." This lesson emphasizes the boundless nature of forgiveness. Just as God forgives us repeatedly, we are called to extend the same grace to others, fostering reconciliation and peace. 6. The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant This parable, found in Matthew 18:23-35, illustrates the importance of mercy. The servant who was forgiven a great debt failed to show the same mercy to another. Jesus concludes, "This is how My heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart." It serves as a powerful reminder that our forgiveness from God is linked to our willingness to forgive others. 7. The Importance of Reconciliation Matthew 18:15-17 provides a blueprint for resolving conflicts within the community. "If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over." This lesson encourages open communication and reconciliation, promoting unity and harmony among believers. 8. The Authority of Agreement in Prayer In Matthew 18:19-20, Jesus assures us, "Again, I tell you truly that if two of you on the earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven." This lesson highlights the power of collective prayer and agreement among believers. When we come together in faith, our prayers carry a special authority and effectiveness. 9. The Presence of Christ Among Us Jesus promises in Matthew 18:20, "For where two or three gather in My name, there am I with them." This comforting assurance reminds us that Christ is present in our midst whenever we gather in His name. It encourages us to seek fellowship and community, knowing that His presence brings strength and encouragement. 10. The Call to Protect the Innocent Matthew 18:10 warns, "See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of My Father in heaven." This lesson calls us to protect and value the innocent and vulnerable among us. It is a reminder of the high regard God has for each individual, urging us to reflect His love and care in our interactions with others. Topics 1. The Greatest in the Kingdom (Matthew 18:1-5) Jesus teaches about humility by placing a child in the midst of the disciples, emphasizing that one must become like a child to enter the kingdom of heaven. The Greek word for "humble" (ταπεινόω, tapeinoō) highlights the importance of lowering oneself in status and spirit. 2. The Stumbling Blocks (Matthew 18:6-9) Jesus warns against causing others, especially "little ones" who believe in Him, to stumble. The Greek term for "stumble" (σκανδαλίζω, skandalizō) refers to causing someone to fall into sin. The passage underscores the severity of leading others astray. 3. The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Matthew 18:10-14) This parable illustrates God's concern for every individual, emphasizing that He does not want any of the "little ones" to perish. The Greek word for "perish" (ἀπόλλυμι, apollymi) conveys the idea of being lost or destroyed. 4. A Brother Who Sins (Matthew 18:15-20) Jesus provides a process for addressing sin within the community, emphasizing reconciliation and the authority of the church. The Greek term for "bind" (δέω, deō) and "loose" (λύω, lyō) in verse 18 reflect the authority to make decisions regarding church discipline. 5. The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:21-35) This parable teaches about the necessity of forgiveness, as Peter asks how many times he should forgive a brother. The Greek word for "forgive" (ἀφίημι, aphiēmi) means to release or let go, highlighting the importance of forgiving others as God forgives us. Themes 1. Humility and Greatness in the Kingdom (Matthew 18:1-4) Jesus teaches that true greatness in the kingdom of heaven is characterized by humility. He uses a child as an example, saying, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3). The Greek word for "change" (στραφῆτε, straphēte) implies a turning or conversion, emphasizing the need for a fundamental transformation in attitude. 2. The Value of Each Believer (Matthew 18:5-6) Jesus emphasizes the importance of welcoming and valuing each believer, especially those who are like children in their faith. He warns against causing them to stumble, stating, "But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea" (Matthew 18:6). The Greek word for "stumble" (σκανδαλίσῃ, skandalisē) suggests causing someone to fall into sin. 3. The Seriousness of Sin (Matthew 18:7-9) Jesus speaks about the inevitability of stumbling blocks but pronounces woe on those through whom they come. He advises radical measures to avoid sin, saying, "If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away" (Matthew 18:8). This hyperbolic language underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for decisive action to avoid it. 4. The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Matthew 18:10-14) This parable illustrates God's concern for every individual, especially those who have gone astray. Jesus says, "In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish" (Matthew 18:14). The Greek word for "perish" (ἀπόληται, apolētai) conveys the idea of being lost or destroyed, highlighting God's desire for the salvation of all. 5. Church Discipline and Reconciliation (Matthew 18:15-20) Jesus provides a process for addressing sin within the community, emphasizing reconciliation and restoration. He instructs, "If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately" (Matthew 18:15). The goal is to "gain your brother" (κερδήσῃς, kerdēsēs), which in Greek implies winning back or restoring the relationship. 6. The Power of Agreement in Prayer (Matthew 18:19-20) Jesus assures His followers of the power of united prayer, stating, "For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them" (Matthew 18:20). The Greek word for "gather" (συνάγω, synagō) suggests a coming together with a common purpose, emphasizing the importance of community in prayer. 7. The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:21-35) This parable teaches the necessity of forgiveness, as Jesus responds to Peter's question about how many times to forgive. Jesus concludes, "This is how My heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart" (Matthew 18:35). The Greek word for "forgive" (ἀφῆτε, aphēte) means to release or let go, underscoring the need for genuine forgiveness. Prayer Points Pray for a heart of humility and dependence on God, asking Him to help us become like little children in our faith. Ask God for wisdom and grace to avoid causing others to stumble and to be a source of encouragement and strength to fellow believers. Pray for a burden for the lost and the courage to reach out to those who have wandered from the faith. Seek God's guidance in handling conflicts and pursuing reconciliation within the church community. Ask for the strength to forgive others as we have been forgiven, releasing any bitterness or resentment we may hold. Answering Tough Questions 1. Matthew 18:3–4 – How is the transformation into a childlike state to enter the kingdom of heaven scientifically or psychologically plausible? 2. Matthew 18:8–9 – Is it literal or hyperbole to amputate body parts to avoid sin, and how does that align with modern understanding of self-harm? 3. Matthew 18:12–14 – Does the parable of leaving ninety-nine sheep for one contradict practical shepherding and ancient Near Eastern practices? 4. Matthew 18:15–17 – Is there historical or archaeological evidence of early church discipline following these steps exactly? 5. Matthew 18:18 – How does the promise of binding and loosing on earth affecting heaven align with other biblical texts on divine authority? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jesus' teaching on childlike faith challenge the conventional understanding of greatness? 2. How can we apply the lessons from Jesus' warnings against causing others to sin in our lives today? 3. What does the Parable of the Lost Sheep teach us about the value God places on every individual? 4. How can we implement Jesus' instructions on dealing with a brother who sins in our relationships and communities? 5. What does Jesus' response to Peter's question about forgiveness ("seventy times seven") teach us about God's expectation for our forgiveness towards others? 6. How does the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant emphasize the importance of mercy and forgiveness? 7. How does the concept of treating an unrepentant sinner as a "pagan or tax collector" reconcile with Jesus' call for forgiveness? 8. What are the practical implications of the promise that where two or three gather in Jesus' name, He is there with them? 9. How can we foster a childlike faith in an adult world? 10. How does understanding the seriousness of causing others to sin affect your daily decisions and actions? 11. How can the Parable of the Lost Sheep shape your view of evangelism and reaching out to others? 12. How can we resolve conflicts in a manner that is in line with Jesus' teachings in this chapter? 13. What barriers might prevent us from forgiving others as taught in the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant, and how can we overcome them? 14. How does Jesus' teaching on forgiveness challenge societal norms around revenge and holding grudges? 15. What steps can we take to ensure we don't become stumbling blocks to others in our faith community? 16. How does the process Jesus lays out for correcting a brother who sins encourage accountability and restoration? 17. In what ways does the final verse ("forgive your brother from your heart") challenge superficial or insincere forgiveness? 18. How does this chapter's focus on humility, forgiveness, and dealing with sin influence your understanding of community in the Kingdom of Heaven? 19. What are some practical ways we can show humility and childlike faith in our everyday lives? 20. How does the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant affect your understanding of God's mercy and justice? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions