Daily Bible Reading - January 20th, 2011

January 20th, 2011

Matthew 17:24-18:5 (GNT)

Confess Jesus as Lord

Introduction

Matthew 17:24-18:5: Today’s reading begins with the collectors of the Temple tax asking Peter if his teacher paid this tax. So that nobody is offended, Jesus asks Peter to settle the Temple tax for both of them. Then Jesus called a little child to stand in front of his disciples, and said that unless they become like little children, they will never enter the Kingdom of heaven.

Today's Scripture: Matthew 18:3, 4

“I assure you that unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the Kingdom of heaven. The greatest in the Kingdom of heaven is the one who humbles himself and becomes like this child.”

Today's Reading

²⁴ When Jesus and his disciples came to Capernaum, the collectors of the Temple tax came to Peter and asked, “Does your teacher pay the Temple tax?” ²⁵ “Of course,” Peter answered. When Peter went into the house, Jesus spoke up first, “Simon, what is your opinion? Who pays duties or taxes to the kings of this world? The citizens of the country or the foreigners?” ²⁶ “The foreigners,” answered Peter. “Well, then,” replied Jesus, “that means that the citizens don't have to pay. ¹ At that time the disciples came to Jesus, asking, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” ² So Jesus called a child to come and stand in front of them, ³ and said, “I assure you that unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the Kingdom of heaven. ⁴ The greatest in the Kingdom of heaven is the one who humbles himself and becomes like this child. ⁵ And whoever welcomes in my name one such child as this, welcomes me.

Reflect

Reread 18:1-5. Children are considered a gift from God. However, they have little power and are expected to obey their parents completely and do as they are told. Jesus used children as examples to show that being powerful is not the way to get into God’s Kingdom. What God requires is obedience. What does this scripture passage mean to you?

Pray

Heavenly Father, you ask us to be like children so that we might enter your Kingdom. Make me your child today, that my innocence and obedience may serve you. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Children