New International VersionTruly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
New Living TranslationI tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.”
English Standard VersionTruly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”
Berean Standard BibleTruly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Berean Literal BibleTruly I say to you, whoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a child, shall not at all enter into it."
King James BibleVerily 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 VersionAssuredly, 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 BibleTruly 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 BibleTruly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.”
Amplified BibleI 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.”
Christian Standard BibleTruly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Holman Christian Standard BibleI assure you: Whoever does not welcome the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
American Standard VersionVerily 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 VersionYou will never get into God's kingdom unless you enter it like a child!"
English Revised VersionVerily 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® TranslationI can guarantee this truth: Whoever doesn't receive the kingdom of God as a little child receives it will never enter it."
Good News TranslationRemember this! Whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."
International Standard VersionI 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 BibleI tell you the truth, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."
New Heart English BibleTruly, 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 TranslationVerily 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 TestamentI 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 BibleMost 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 BibleTruly I say to you, whoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a child, shall not at all 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 TranslationTruly 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 VersionAmen, I say to you, whoever will not accept the kingdom of God like a child, will not enter into it.”
New American BibleAmen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.”
New Revised Standard VersionTruly 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
Truly I say unto you, whosoever may not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, can not enter into it.
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
Verily I say to you, whosoever does not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child, shall in no wise enter therein."
Worsley New Testament
Verily I tell you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall by no means enter into it.
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. 17TrulyI tellyou,anyone whodoes not receivethekingdomof Godlikea little childwill never enterit.”18Then a certain ruler asked Him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”…
Cross References Matthew 18:3“Truly I tell you,” He said, “unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Mark 10:15Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Matthew 19:14But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
John 3:3Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.”
1 Peter 2:2Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,
Matthew 11:25At 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 14:20Brothers, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be mature.
James 4:6But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
1 John 3:1Behold what manner of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him.
Romans 8:16-17The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. / And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him.
Galatians 4:6-7And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” / So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, you are also an heir through God.
Psalm 131:1-2A song of ascents. Of David. My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty. I do not aspire to great things or matters too lofty for me. / Surely I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with his mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.
Isaiah 11:6The wolf will live with the lamb, and the leopard will lie down with the goat; the calf and young lion and fatling will be together, and a little child will lead them.
Proverbs 3:34He mocks the mockers, but gives grace to the humble.
Isaiah 57:15For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in a high and holy place, and with the oppressed and humble in spirit, to restore the spirit of the lowly and revive the heart of the contrite.
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 ChildEnterKingdomLittleReceiveReignSolemnThereinTruthVerilyWayWiseJump to Next ChildEnterKingdomLittleReceiveReignSolemnThereinTruthVerilyWayWiseLuke 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
The "kingdom of God" refers to God's sovereign rule and reign, both in the present spiritual sense and the future physical manifestation. Receiving the kingdom implies accepting God's authority and entering into a relationship with Him. This concept is central to Jesus' teaching and is a recurring theme throughout the Gospels. It contrasts with the Jewish expectation of a political kingdom, emphasizing instead a spiritual transformation and submission to God's will. like a little child
Children in the ancient world were seen as dependent, humble, and without status. Jesus uses the example of a child to illustrate the qualities necessary to enter the kingdom: humility, trust, and a sense of dependence on God. This teaching challenges the cultural norms of the time, where status and self-reliance were often valued. It also connects to other teachings of Jesus, such as the Beatitudes, where the "poor in spirit" are blessed. will never enter it.”
This phrase underscores the necessity of childlike faith and humility for entry into the kingdom of God. It is an absolute statement, indicating that without these qualities, one cannot be part of God's kingdom. This teaching is consistent with the broader biblical narrative that emphasizes faith and humility as prerequisites for a relationship with God. It also serves as a warning against pride and self-sufficiency, which are barriers to experiencing God's rule in one's life. 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. ChildrenRepresenting innocence, humility, and dependence, children are used by Jesus as an example of the attitude required to enter the kingdom of God. 3. DisciplesFollowers of Jesus who are present during this teaching, learning about the values of the kingdom. 4. The Kingdom of GodA 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 DependenceRecognize our need for God in every aspect of life, acknowledging that we cannot enter the kingdom through our own efforts. Simplicity in BeliefApproach God with a simple, sincere heart, free from the complications and doubts that often accompany adult reasoning. Openness to LearningBe willing to learn and grow in faith, maintaining a teachable spirit like that of a child eager to learn. Receptivity to God's KingdomCultivate 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).
summaryJesus 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 tellλέγω(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.ifἂν(an)Particle
Strong's 302:A primary particle, denoting a supposition, wish, possibility or uncertainty.anyoneὃς(hos)Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3739:Who, which, what, that.does not receiveδέξηται(dexētai)Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Middle - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1209:To take, receive, accept, welcome. Middle voice of a primary verb; to receive.theτὴν(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.kingdomβασιλείαν(basileian)Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 932:From basileus; properly, royalty, i.e. rule, or a realm.of GodΘεοῦ(Theou)Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 2316:A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.likeὡς(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 enterεἰσέλθῃ(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.
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NT Gospels: Luke 18:17 Most certainly I tell you whoever doesn't (Luke Lu Lk) |
