As a little child

 Praise the LORD!!!

   Let us look this morning at the first several verses of Matt. 18

 Matthew 18:3,4
   “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.  4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 

   These verses are JESUS' reply to the disciples question, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 

   This is a very important section of scripture and one, that over the centuries, has fallen from site in the Christian walk. To understand this we must look at the attributes of a little child and then mimic them as best we can.


   As a little child, which all of us at one time were, life was much different than it is for us today as grownups. When our parents or any elder told us something, we took it as truth. We didn't try to dispute it, or try to disseminate it into little pieces, we took it as it was presented to us as being that which was true and going to happen. Sometimes, even believing some very unbelievable stories, examples or explanations. I know you can relate to this. I still remember some of those wild things my parents told me as a child, even used some of them on my own:) The list of these is so long, it would be impossible to write them all down, so I'll not even enter one, but I believe you know many for yourself.

   The point of this, is that which JESUS was trying to get across to the disciples and us today. When we read scripture and it says something, no matter how unbelievable it is, we're to take it as the truth. Not trying to dispute it or break it down into every imaginable possibility. But, just accept it as the truth and live our lives dependent upon it being so. If you've ever witnessed a young child hearing the gospel for the first time, it is amazing. The fathomless joy that comes upon their faces. Their willingness to at once reach out and take hold of it and in many cases, at once going out and telling others about their LORD and SAVIOR.

   They've no idea of any doctrines or theology, they've nothing but the very basic and simplest of understandings of it. Yet, they're willing to accept it totally and begin telling others of it's wonders. This is that state that we as adults have forgotten, but should once again seek out. For in the simplest and humblest understandings are the greatest blessings. Let us return and once again be "as a little child"!!!

 
Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!

Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org

GOD bless and good day,

Rev. Marshall Barth

Vine of CHRIST Ministries