40 Day Bible Reading Challenge: Day 16 Jesus Importance of Children and Forgiveness

 Matthew 18 begins with the disciples asking Jesus who is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven, prompting Jesus to place a child among them as a model of humility and innocence required to enter Heaven. He emphasizes the value of becoming humble like a child and warns of severe consequences for those causing believers to stumble. This chapter highlights the importance of welcoming and not despising the "little ones" for their angels always see the face of the Father in heaven, illustrating the significance of each believer in God's eyes.

The writing further explores the parable of the lost sheep, showcasing God's love for each individual and His desire not to lose any. It outlines the steps for addressing a brother's sin within the community, emphasizing reconciliation and the power of collective prayer. Jesus teaches about the necessity of forgiveness, using the parable of the unforgiving servant to illustrate the expected forgiveness among His followers, mirroring the forgiveness they receive from God. This part of the chapter underscores the importance of mercy and forgiveness, reflecting God's kingdom's principles.

Lastly, Matthew 18 addresses interpersonal relationships and conflict resolution among believers, emphasizing forgiveness as a fundamental kingdom value. Jesus instructs on the boundless nature of forgiveness, illustrating through a parable that God's forgiveness of our debts obliges us to forgive others in the same manner. The chapter concludes with a stern warning about the consequences of unforgiveness, likening God's judgment to that of the king towards the unforgiving servant, thereby reinforcing the call for compassion and forgiveness as central to the life of a believer and the health of the community.