How We Treat Christ's Followers

Matthew 18:5-6 — 'Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.'

Question 1: The Connection

Jesus says that receiving a child 'in my name' is the same as receiving Him. In Acts 9:4-5, when Saul was persecuting Christians, Jesus asked him, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?'

Why do you think Jesus takes it so personally when someone mistreats His followers? What does this reveal about His relationship with believers?

Question 2: Old Testament Roots

Read Genesis 12:3, where God tells Abraham: 'I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse.'

According to Galatians 3:26-29, believers in Christ are considered Abraham's offspring and heirs of God's promises. How does this Old Testament principle apply to Christians today? What does it mean that God promises to bless those who bless His people?

Question 3: The Positive Side

Matthew 18:5 talks about receiving a disciple. The sermon explained this as warmly recognizing and welcoming a follower of Christ.

What are some practical ways teenagers can 'receive' other believers at school, in your youth group, or online? What might it look like to receive someone 'in Jesus' name' versus just being friendly?

Question 4: The Serious Warning

Jesus uses extreme language in verse 6 — a millstone and drowning — to describe the fate of anyone who causes a believer to stumble into sin.

Why do you think Jesus speaks so harshly here? What does this tell us about how God views those who lead His children astray? Can you think of ways people (even unintentionally) might cause other Christians to stumble?

Question 5: Spiritual Influence

The sermon quoted: 'You become the average of the five people you spend the most time with.' Hebrews 10:24-25 says, 'Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together.'

Who are the five people you spend the most time with? Are they helping you grow spiritually, or pulling you away from Christ? What changes (if any) might you need to make in your friendships or how you spend your time?

Debate & Discussion Springboard

Scenario: A Christian student at your school is being mocked for their faith. Some classmates make fun of them for praying before lunch, posting Bible verses on social media, or refusing to participate in certain activities. One of your close friends (who isn't a Christian) joins in the mocking and pressures you to laugh along.

Discuss: - Based on Matthew 18:5-6 and the sermon, what is at stake in this situation — not just for the student being mocked, but for those doing the mocking? - What would it look like to 'receive' this Christian student in Jesus' name? - How would you respond to your friend's pressure? What might you say or do? - Does it matter whether the person being mistreated is a 'strong' Christian or a 'weak' one (someone new in their faith or struggling)? Why or why not?

Personal Reflection: Write one specific way you will 'receive' or encourage a fellow believer this week.