Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.

MARK 9:37KJV
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Mark 9:37 (KJV)

What does Mark 9:37 mean?

Mark 9:37 means that welcoming and caring for a child in Jesus’ name is counted as welcoming Jesus himself, and even more, as welcoming God who sent him. Jesus teaches that how someone treats the humble and vulnerable reflects their attitude toward him and toward God.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his disciples after they argued about who among them was the greatest. He uses a child as an example, showing that true greatness in God’s eyes is found in humility and service. By saying “in my name,” Jesus points to actions done with his character and authority in mind, not just outward kindness.

The Greek behind Mark 9:37

  • “Receive” (δέχομαι, dechomai): This Greek word means to welcome or accept, not just physically but with genuine openness. Jesus highlights that true acceptance goes beyond surface gestures.
  • “Such children” (τοιοῦτος παιδίον, toioutos paidion): The phrase points to children like the one Jesus placed before them—representing those who are lowly or overlooked. Jesus is emphasizing the value of those who seem insignificant.
  • “In my name” (ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματί μου, epi tō onomati mou): This means acting because of Jesus, with his purpose and authority. It’s not just about being nice, but about representing Jesus’ values.

Why Mark 9:37 matters

  • Mark 9:37 corrects the common idea that spiritual greatness is about status or power; Jesus redefines it as humility and care for the least.
  • The verse connects personal actions toward others directly to one’s relationship with Jesus and God, making everyday kindness spiritually significant.
  • Mark 9:37 sets the tone for the rest of the passage, where Jesus continues to challenge his disciples’ ideas about leadership, service, and what it means to follow him.

Where else these words appear

“receive” Greek G1209 · used in 48 verses

  • Matthew 10:14 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
  • Luke 16:4 I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.
  • 1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

“children” Greek G3813 · used in 48 verses

  • Matthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
  • Mark 5:39 And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.
  • Luke 2:40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

“such” Greek G5108 · used in 59 verses

  • Matthew 9:8 But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.
  • Acts 26:29 And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.
  • 2 Corinthians 11:13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

“me” Greek G1691 · used in 77 verses

  • Matthew 10:37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
  • John 9:4 I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.
  • John 17:20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;