In reading Jesus’ words about cutting off limbs rather than harming children, let’s not forget how the conversation started. The disciples had asked Jesus who was greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus said, “Unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself, as a little child is greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Mathew 18:1-4).
That means when he is talking about harming children, he is not only speaking of chronological age, but all believers.
Jesus takes the purposeful act of harming any of his children very seriously. That should give us all pause in how we treat our brothers and sisters in Christ.
