What is the context?
The disciples ask who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus has recently told them that He will be killed and raised, yet they are concerned about greatness. Mark 9:33–37 describes their discussion on the road and Jesus' answer: the person who wants to be first must become a servant to everyone.
Jesus brings a little child among them. Before answering who is greatest, He tells them they must change and become like children even to enter the kingdom. Verse 4 explains the comparison: they must humble themselves. The word is ταπεινόω, tapeinoō (tah-pay-noh-OH), to bring low or humble. Thayer's entry describes its use here as setting aside pride and behaving without self-importance.
Jesus then joins humility to welcome. Receiving a child like this in His name means receiving Him. The disciples' question about their own importance leads to a lesson about how they receive someone else. The warnings that follow show how seriously He takes the treatment of those who believe in Him.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christians commonly understand the child as a lesson in humility and dependence on God. Wesley on 18:3–6 emphasizes a humble heart that relies on the Father and welcomes those dear to Christ; the US Catholic bishops' notes on 18:3–5 likewise emphasize dependence and trust.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Jesus will Himself live out the humble service He teaches. Philippians 2:3–11 calls believers to consider others and then points to Christ: He took the form of a servant, humbled Himself to death on a cross, and was exalted by God. His way of bringing salvation also shapes the life of the people He saves.
Hebrews 2:9–11 makes the larger purpose clear. Jesus suffers death by God's grace as He brings many sons to glory, and He calls those He makes holy His brothers. The kingdom's greatness grows out of the Savior's self-giving love. Learning to serve others joins the disciples' daily conduct to His mission.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.