Matthew 18:10

Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.

Take heed {G3708} that ye despise {G2706} not {G3361} one {G1520} of these {G5130} little ones {G3398}; for {G1063} I say {G3004} unto you {G5213}, That {G3754} in {G1722} heaven {G3772} their {G846} angels {G32} do always {G1223}{G3956} behold {G991} the face {G4383} of my {G3450} Father {G3962} which {G3588} is in {G1722} heaven {G3772}.

See that you never despise one of these little ones, for I tell you that their angels in heaven are continually seeing the face of my Father in heaven.

See that you do not look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of My Father in heaven.

See that ye despise not one of these little ones: for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven.

Context

Matthew 18:10 is a pivotal verse within Jesus' discourse on humility, forgiveness, and the value of believers, particularly those who might be overlooked or vulnerable. This entire chapter begins with the disciples asking Jesus, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" (Matthew 18:1). In response, Jesus places a little child in their midst, emphasizing that true greatness in the kingdom requires a humble spirit, like that of a child (Matthew 18:3). Following this, He issues a severe warning against causing one of these "little ones" to stumble (Matthew 18:6). Verse 10 serves to underscore the profound divine value and protection God places on these individuals, whether literal children or those who are humble and new in faith.

Key Themes

  • The Divine Value of the "Little Ones": Jesus emphatically warns against despising "one of these little ones," highlighting God's immense love and high regard for the humble, the innocent, and the vulnerable, including literal children and those who are spiritually dependent.
  • Heavenly Advocacy and Protection: The statement that "in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven" suggests a unique and intimate access to God's presence on behalf of these little ones. This implies a powerful heavenly advocacy and divine protection, underscoring their significance in God's eyes.
  • Warning Against Spiritual Harm: The command "Take heed that ye despise not" is a strong admonition against any attitude or action that devalues, neglects, or causes spiritual harm to those whom God cherishes so deeply. It calls for careful consideration and protection of the vulnerable within the community of faith.

Linguistic Insights

The term "little ones" (Greek: mikron) in this context extends beyond mere literal children to encompass anyone who is humble, unassuming, or new in faith, those who might be considered insignificant by worldly standards. The phrase "behold the face" (Greek: blepousin to prosopon) signifies direct, unrestricted access to the presence of God, indicating a high status and intimate relationship. This is not merely casual observation but active attendance, reflecting the dignity and importance of those whom these angels represent. This concept is similar to the angel Gabriel describing himself as one who "stand in the presence of God" in Luke 1:19.

Practical Application

Matthew 18:10 calls believers to a profound respect and care for all individuals, especially the vulnerable and the spiritually nascent. It challenges us to:

  • Embrace Humility: Recognize that true greatness in God's kingdom is characterized by humility and dependence, mirroring the spirit of a child.
  • Protect the Vulnerable: Be diligent in protecting and nurturing children, new converts, and anyone who is spiritually weak or marginalized within the church and society. This includes guarding against attitudes of superiority, neglect, or harm.
  • Value Every Soul: Understand that every individual, no matter how insignificant they may seem to human eyes, holds immense value in the sight of God, to the extent that they have heavenly advocates who stand in His presence. This echoes Jesus' teaching on caring for 'the least of these', as doing so is serving Him directly.
  • Live with Awareness of Divine Care: Find comfort and assurance in the knowledge that God's watchful eye and heavenly protection are always upon those who are humble and dependent on Him.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 91:11

    For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

  • Hebrews 1:14

    Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

  • Psalms 34:7

    The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.

  • Luke 16:22

    And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;

  • Acts 12:7

    And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon [him], and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from [his] hands.

  • Acts 12:11

    And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and [from] all the expectation of the people of the Jews.

  • 2 Kings 6:16

    And he answered, Fear not: for they that [be] with us [are] more than they that [be] with them.
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