and said, "Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven."
(Matthew 18:3 NKJV)

humility - the way up is down

1. This passage reveals an ugly side of the apostles. Each is vying for the “top” position in the kingdom. Each thinks he is better than his fellow apostle.
2. Jesus rebukes their pride with an object lesson. He calls a little child, sets him in the midst , and makes his humble character the means to the end of the disciples’ pride. Jesus turns their ambition on its head. The way up is down.
3. Pride is dangerous. It destroys the soul and leads to a fall. “Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD…” - Proverbs 16:5a. “Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall” - Proverbs 16:18.
4. Jesus alone occupies the position that His disciples are seeking. Their pride would push the Lord off His throne and replace Him with themselves! No wonder “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” - 1 Peter 5:5.

-- Rick Duggin