Definition: Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this famous passage from Luke 18:17. It’s a really powerful and thought-provoking statement about how to truly understand and embrace what God offers us. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse isn’t about being nice or being polite; it's about a fundamental shift in our mindset when it comes to seeking God’s blessings. It means that if you don't genuinely want and embrace what God offers, you won’t be able to enter into a relationship with Him or experience the fullness of His goodness. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Luke 18:17” : This is the verse itself – a key part of a story. “Verily I say unto you…” : This is Jesus using a slightly dramatic way to emphasize his truth. “Verily” means truly, and "I say" indicates it’s a serious statement. “Whosoever shall not receive…” : This is the core of the message. “Whosoever” means everyone . It's saying that anyone , regardless of their background or circumstances, will be affected by this rule. “…the kingdom of God as a little child…” : This is where it gets really important. The "kingdom of God" refers to God’s realm – His perfect and glorious place in the universe. “As a little child” means approaching God with a humble, innocent, and receptive spirit. It's not about grand gestures or impressive displays; it's about recognizing that He is more important than we are. “…shall in no wise enter therein.” : This is the consequence of not wanting to receive what God offers. If you don’t genuinely desire and embrace His blessings, you won’t be able to truly connect with Him or experience the joy and peace that comes from a relationship with God. You'll remain on the outside, separated. In simpler terms: Jesus is telling us that God wants a genuine relationship with us, not just a superficial one. If we don’t actively seek to understand and appreciate His love, generosity, and grace – if we don’t approach Him with an open heart and a willingness to receive – then we can’t truly enter into the fullness of His blessings. It’s about being receptive to His gifts. Why is this important? This verse speaks to our own lives. It’s a reminder that God's love isn't something we earn; it's something we receive . If we don't cultivate a spirit of humility and openness, we are missing out on the blessings He offers us. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how to approach God with a "little child" mindset?