Matthew 18:6 "Those who cause a Child to Stumble."

Matthew 18:6 is a verse from the New Testament Bible, specifically from the Gospel of Matthew. The verse reads as follows in the New International Version (NIV):

"But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea."

To understand the verse, let's break it down and provide context:

Context: In Matthew 18, Jesus teaches his disciples the importance of humility and becoming like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven. He warns them against causing harm or leading others, particularly vulnerable children, away from faith and righteousness.

"Little ones": In this context, "little ones" refers to young children, new believers, or anyone vulnerable or easily influenced in their faith. Jesus expresses concern for the spiritual well-being of those young or fresh in their faith.

"To stumble": The term "stumble" in this verse is a metaphor for sinning or falling away from the faith. Causing someone to stumble means to lead them into temptation or to do something that hinders their spiritual growth or causes them to lose faith in God.

Millstone: A millstone is a large, heavy stone used to grind grain in ancient times. A donkey or other draft animal usually turns it. In this verse, Jesus uses the millstone to symbolize a severe and inescapable punishment.

Drowning in the sea: Jesus says it would be better for a person who causes a little one to stumble to be drowned in the depths of the sea. This intense and vivid image of punishment emphasizes the gravity of causing spiritual harm to others, especially vulnerable believers.

In summary, Matthew 18:6 is a strong warning from Jesus against causing harm or leading others, particularly vulnerable believers, into sin or away from the faith. The verse emphasizes the importance of nurturing and protecting the spiritual well-being of others and the severe consequences for those who cause harm.