Intro: The word ‘turn’ in Hebrew is shub and it is mentioned over 1000 times in Scripture. The fact that it is repeated so many times means we need to pay attention. The definition of the word shub is to overturn, change, transform, or turn back. When we ‘turn’ toward God, we ‘turn’ away from sin. God cannot tolerate sin, because it is the devil’s/liar’s work (1 John 3:8). There is no sin in the Lord (1 John 3:5). So, to turn away from sin is to turn toward our destiny; living the Truth. No matter which direction we turn, we face the results of our choosing. If we do not turn toward God, our future is guaranteed to be permeated with sin and littered with destruction because the devil is a liar (John 8:44).
In our passage today, Jesus teaches his disciples about their need to turn. The focus of his lesson is for them to turn from sin toward humility—which would be right actions with God. Our actions are the results of the choice we make in whom we will serve, as well. The disciples must do more than say they serve Christ, they must live their destiny. Every time we turn toward making a righteous choice, we are turning our backs against sin. To every sin turn, turn turn…
Matthew 18:1-5 The Greatest in the Kingdom
1 About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?”
2 Jesus called a little child to him and put the child among them. 3 Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. 4 So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.
5 “And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me.
Prayer: Lord, please continue to teach us the many ways we must turn toward you in order to develop righteous actions. Keep us humble and focused on the greatness you bring our lives. In Jesus’ name. Amen.