Rank in the Kingdom

1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”(A) 2 He called a little child and set him before them, 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. 4 Therefore, whoever (a)humbles himself like this child is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 Whoever receives and welcomes one (b)child like this in My name receives Me;

Footnotes:

a. Matthew 18:4: I.e. turns his back on self-righteous pride and adopts a realistic self-view.
b. Matthew 18:5: I.e. new, childlike believer.

Cross references: