Matthew 18:10

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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.

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 18:10 delivers a profound warning from Jesus against despising or causing harm to those who are humble, vulnerable, or new in faith, often referred to as "little ones." This admonition is underscored by the astonishing revelation that these individuals are so highly esteemed by God that their angelic representatives have constant, direct access to the very presence of the Father in heaven, signifying their immense divine value and unwavering heavenly protection.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 18:10 is a pivotal statement within Jesus' extensive discourse on kingdom ethics, specifically addressing humility, the value of believers, and the necessity of forgiveness. The chapter begins with the disciples' pragmatic question, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" ([Matthew 18:1](/matthew/18-1 "Matthew 18:1 - The Disciples' Question on Greatness")). Jesus responds by placing a child in their midst, declaring that true greatness is found in humble, childlike faith ([Matthew 18:3](/matthew/18-3 "Matthew 18:3 - Humility Like a Child")). This sets the stage for a series of warnings against causing these "little ones" to stumble ([Matthew 18:6](/matthew/18-6 "Matthew 18:6 - Warning Against Causing Stumbling")), emphasizing the severe consequences of such actions. Verse 10 serves as a powerful theological underpinning for these warnings, revealing the divine perspective on the value and protection afforded to those who embody this childlike humility. The subsequent parable of the lost sheep ([Matthew 18:12-14](/matthew/18-12-14 "Matthew 18:12-14 - Parable of the Lost Sheep")) further reinforces God's diligent care for each individual "little one."
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near Eastern world, children generally held a low social status, possessing little power, rights, or influence. They were dependent and often overlooked. By using a child as the paradigm for kingdom greatness and then extending the term "little ones" to include vulnerable or new believers, Jesus radically subverts societal norms. The concept of angelic beings serving as messengers or representatives of God was familiar in Jewish tradition (e.g., [Daniel 10:13](/daniel/10-13 "Daniel 10:13 - The Prince of Persia Resists")). While the idea of a personal guardian angel for every individual is debated, the statement that "their angels do always behold the face of my Father" highlights the profound access and advocacy these specific angels have on behalf of the "little ones," underscoring their unique dignity and importance in God's eyes. This access to the "face" of God was considered the highest privilege, reserved for those in closest proximity to the divine presence.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Matthew and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it emphasizes the **Divine Value of the Vulnerable**, revealing God's immense love and high regard for the humble, the innocent, and those who are spiritually dependent, whether literal children or new converts. Secondly, it highlights **Heavenly Advocacy and Protection**, suggesting a unique and intimate access to God's presence on behalf of these "little ones," implying a powerful heavenly intercession and divine safeguarding. This theme resonates with God's providential care for His people throughout salvation history. Thirdly, the initial command, "Take heed that ye despise not," serves as a strong **Warning Against Spiritual Harm**, admonishing against any attitude or action that devalues, neglects, or causes spiritual stumbling to those whom God cherishes so deeply. This call for careful consideration and protection of the vulnerable is a hallmark of true kingdom living, contrasting sharply with worldly ambitions for greatness as seen in [Matthew 20:25-28](/matthew/20-25-28 "Matthew 20:25-28 - True Greatness is Service").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **despise (Greek, _kataphronéō'_):** Derived from *katá* (down) and *phronéō* (to think), this verb literally means "to think against" or "to think down upon." It signifies an attitude of contempt, disdain, or disregard, implying a devaluation of another person. Jesus' warning is not merely against outward actions of harm, but against the internal disposition that would lead one to consider "little ones" as insignificant or unworthy of respect and care.
* **little ones (Greek, _mikrós'_):** This adjective denotes something small in size, quantity, number, or, significantly, dignity. In this context, while it certainly includes literal children, its primary application extends metaphorically to those who are humble, unassuming, spiritually nascent, or considered insignificant by worldly standards. It refers to those who are dependent, vulnerable, and perhaps easily overlooked within the community of faith.
* **behold (Greek, _blépō'_):** This verb means "to look at," "to discern clearly," or "to attend to." It implies an active, attentive, and purposeful gaze, not a mere casual glance. When applied to the angels, it suggests their constant, focused attention on the Father's face, indicative of their privileged position and continuous service in His presence on behalf of the "little ones."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones":** This is a solemn imperative, an urgent warning from Jesus. "Take heed" (from *horáō*, to see, perceive, attend to) emphasizes the need for careful consideration and vigilance. The prohibition "despise not" condemns any attitude or action that devalues, neglects, or treats with contempt those who are humble, vulnerable, or new in faith. It is a direct command against spiritual elitism or disregard for the marginalized.
* **"for I say unto you":** This phrase asserts Jesus' divine authority and the absolute truth of the statement that follows. It signals that what He is about to reveal is a profound spiritual reality, directly from the Son of God, providing the divine rationale for the preceding warning.
* **"That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven":** This clause reveals the astonishing reason for the "little ones'" immense value. It states that these individuals have angelic representatives or advocates who are perpetually in the direct, intimate presence of God the Father. "Behold the face" signifies unhindered access and a privileged, continuous audience with the Almighty, reflecting the extraordinary importance and divine protection accorded to these "little ones." It underscores that God Himself cares deeply for them.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 18:10 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The initial phrase, "Take heed," functions as a **Solemn Admonition** or **Warning**, immediately capturing the audience's attention and emphasizing the gravity of the command. The use of **Metonymy** is evident in "little ones," where the term for literal children stands for a broader category of humble, vulnerable, or spiritually nascent believers, expanding the scope of Jesus' teaching. The statement about "their angels" beholding "the face of my Father" utilizes **Symbolism** and **Anthropomorphism**. "The face of my Father" is an anthropomorphic expression for God's direct presence and intimate fellowship, while the angels' constant gaze symbolizes the profound divine care, advocacy, and protection extended to these individuals. Furthermore, the verse presents a powerful **Contrast** between the often-overlooked status of the "little ones" in human society and their exalted, divinely protected position in the heavenly realm.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 18:10 profoundly shapes our understanding of God's character and the nature of His kingdom. It reveals a God who is intimately concerned with the vulnerable and the humble, subverting worldly notions of power and significance. The verse underscores the radical inclusivity of the kingdom, where the least among us are held in highest esteem by the Father. It connects to the broader biblical theme of divine protection for the righteous and the weak, emphasizing that God's care extends even to the unseen, spiritual realm through angelic ministry. This passage calls believers to mirror God's heart by actively valuing, protecting, and nurturing those who might be easily dismissed, recognizing that their dignity is rooted in their profound worth in God's eyes.

* [Matthew 25:40](/matthew/25-40 "Matthew 25:40 - Caring for the Least of These")
* [Psalm 34:7](/psalms/34-7 "Psalm 34:7 - The Angel of the Lord Encamps")
* [Hebrews 1:14](/hebrews/1-14 "Hebrews 1:14 - Angels as Ministering Spirits")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 18:10 serves as a powerful call to re-evaluate our attitudes and actions towards others, particularly those we might deem insignificant or overlook. It challenges us to embrace a kingdom mindset where humility is valued above worldly status, and where every individual, regardless of their perceived strength or influence, is recognized as bearing immense divine worth. This verse compels us to be vigilant guardians of the vulnerable within our families, churches, and communities, actively protecting children, new believers, and anyone who is spiritually or physically weak from neglect, abuse, or contempt. It reminds us that our treatment of the "little ones" reflects our understanding of God's heart and our commitment to His kingdom values. Furthermore, for those who identify as "little ones"—the humble, the dependent, the overlooked—this verse offers profound comfort and assurance, knowing that they are not forgotten but are under the constant, watchful care of God Himself, with heavenly advocates perpetually in His presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, or my community, inadvertently "despise" the "little ones" through neglect, judgment, or indifference?**
* **How does the revelation of angelic advocacy for the "little ones" impact my understanding of their inherent value and God's protective care?**
* **What practical steps can I take to better protect, affirm, and nurture the vulnerable individuals in my sphere of influence, mirroring God's heart?**
* **How does this verse challenge my own pursuit of "greatness" and encourage a spirit of humility and service?**

### FAQ
**Does "their angels" mean that every person has a personal guardian angel?**

Answer: While Matthew 18:10 has often been interpreted to support the idea of personal guardian angels, the primary emphasis of the verse is on the *immense value* and *divine protection* of the "little ones," rather than providing a detailed angelology. The phrase "their angels" could refer to angelic representatives or advocates who serve on behalf of these individuals, having direct access to God's presence. This signifies that the "little ones" are so precious to God that they have powerful, privileged intercessors in heaven. The focus is on the dignity of the "little ones" and the Father's watchful care, rather than a definitive statement on the mechanics of angelic assignment. The Bible does indicate that angels serve and minister to believers (e.g., [Hebrews 1:14](/hebrews/1-14 "Hebrews 1:14 - Angels as Ministering Spirits")), but this verse specifically highlights the unique status of the "little ones" in God's eyes.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 18:10 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies the divine value of the "little ones" and the Father's profound care. Jesus Himself, though God, "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation")), becoming "little" in the eyes of the world. He consistently identified with the marginalized, the humble, and the vulnerable, declaring that whatever is done "unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" ([Matthew 25:40](/matthew/25-40 "Matthew 25:40 - Caring for the Least of These")). His entire mission was to "seek and to save that which was lost" ([Luke 19:10](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - The Son of Man Came to Seek and Save the Lost")), demonstrating God's relentless pursuit of every individual, especially those who are spiritually lost and helpless. Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus secured the eternal protection and salvation for all who humble themselves and believe in Him, making them "little ones" in the kingdom, eternally valued and protected by the Father. The angels' access to the Father's face is a powerful foreshadowing of the direct access believers now have to God through Christ, who is "the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way to the Father")), enabling us to "come boldly unto the throne of grace" ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Boldness to Approach the Throne of Grace")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

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.