Luke 18:17

18:17 I tell you the truth, ¹  whoever does not receive ²  the kingdom of God like a child ³  will never ⁴  enter it.”

Luke 9:48

9:48 and said to them, “Whoever welcomes ⁵  this child ⁶  in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me, for the one who is least among you all is the one who is great.” ⁷ 

[18:17]  ¹ tn Grk “Truly (ἀμήν, amhn), I say to you.”

[18:17]  ² sn On receive see John 1:12.

[18:17]  ³ sn The point of the comparison receive the kingdom of God like a child has more to do with a child’s trusting spirit and willingness to be dependent and receive from others than any inherent humility the child might possess.

[18:17]  ⁴ tn The negation in Greek used here (οὐ μή, ou mh) is very strong.

[9:48]  ⁵ tn This verb, δέχομαι (decomai), is a term of hospitality (L&N 34.53).

[9:48]  ⁶ sn Children were very insignificant in ancient culture, so this child would be the perfect object lesson to counter the disciples’ selfish ambitions.

[9:48]  ⁷ tn Grk “among you all, this one is great.” The absence of a comparative term here makes the point that comparison should not be done.