Matthew 18:4

Amplified Bible

Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Cross References

Isaiah 57:15

For the high and exalted One He who inhabits eternity, Whose name is Holy says this, “I dwell on the high and holy place, But also with the contrite and humble in spirit In order to revive the spirit of the humble And to revive the heart of the contrite [overcome with sorrow for sin]. [Matt 5:3]

Matthew 18:1

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” [Mark 9:33-37; Luke 9:46-48]

Matthew 18:3

and said, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless you repent [that is, change your inner self—your old way of thinking, live changed lives] and become like children [trusting, humble, and forgiving], you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 18:5

Whoever receives and welcomes one child like this in My name receives Me;

Mark 10:43

But this is not how it is among you; instead, whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant,

Mark 9:34

But they kept quiet, because on the road they had discussed and debated with one another which one [of them] was the greatest.

Luke 14:11

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled [before others], and he who habitually humbles himself (keeps a realistic self-view) will be exalted.”

Luke 9:48

and He told them, “Whoever welcomes this child in My name welcomes Me; and whoever welcomes Me [also] welcomes Him who sent Me; for the one who is least among all of you [that is, the one who is genuinely humble—the one with a realistic self-view]—he is the one who is [truly] great.”

James 4:10

Humble yourselves [with an attitude of repentance and insignificance] in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you [He will lift you up, He will give you purpose].

1 Peter 5:5

Likewise, you younger men [of lesser rank and experience], be subject to your elders [seek their counsel]; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another [tie on the servant’s apron], for God is opposed to the proud [the disdainful, the presumptuous, and He defeats them], but He gives grace to the humble. [Prov 3:34]