Markus 9:36-37

9:36 He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, 9:37 “Whoever welcomes ¹  one of these little children ²  in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”

Markus 10:15

10:15 I tell you the truth, ³  whoever does not receive ⁴  the kingdom of God like a child ⁵  will never ⁶  enter it.”

[9:37]  ¹ tn This verb, δέχομαι (decomai), is a term of hospitality (L&N 34.53).

[9:37]  ² sn Children were very insignificant in ancient culture, so this child would be the perfect object lesson to counter the disciples’ selfish ambitions.

[10:15]  ³ tn Grk “Truly (ἀμήν, amhn), I say to you.”

[10:15]  ⁴ sn On receive see John 1:12.

[10:15]  ⁵ sn The point of the comparison receive the kingdom of God like a child has more to do with a child’s trusting spirit and willingness to be dependent and receive from others than any inherent humility the child might possess.

[10:15]  ⁶ tn The negation in Greek (οὐ μή, ou mh) is very strong here.