Matthew 18:2

"In that hour the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?”"

Key Reflection

The disciples' question in Matthew 18:2 reflects their preoccupation with status and power within the new community they are forming (the Kingdom of Heaven). This inquiry into who is greatest aligns with first-century Jewish expectations, where leadership roles were often linked to authority and influence. By asking this, the disciples inadvertently highlight a societal value that Jesus seeks to reorient; he later addresses their concern by teaching humility and service in Matthew 18:3-4.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verses 2-3. Except ye be converted. The word "converted," means changed, or turned. It means, to change or turn from one habit of life, or set of opinions, to another, Jas 5:19; Lu 22:32. See also Mt 7:6; 16:23; Lu 7:9, etc., where the same word is used in the original. It is sometimes referred to that great change called the new birth, or regeneration, Ps 51:13; Isa 9:5; Ac 3:19 but not always. It is a general word, meaning any change. The word regeneration denotes a particular change--the passing from death to life. The phrase, "except ye be converted," does not imply of necessity that they were not Christians before, or had not been born again.

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