Bible Strands
Matthew 18:14
In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Jesus concludes the parable of the lost sheep, addressing his disciples immediately before instructing them on church discipline. He speaks of the Father's disposition toward those who have wandered or are vulnerable.
The words — The Greek οὐκ ἔστιν θέλημα (ouk estin thelēma) literally renders "it is not will," stating a definitive divine refusal rather than a mere preference. This phrasing anchors the statement in absolute sovereign disposition.
The thread — This theme of divine preservation against loss appears in John 6:39 and John 17:12, where the Father's will is explicitly linked to losing none of the given. It also parallels the patient restraint described in 2 Peter 3:9.
Why it lands — The verse states that God's active will opposes the destruction of the vulnerable, requiring believers to align their actions with that same protective stance. It calls for practical diligence in restoration rather than passive indifference.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.
Cross-references
- John 17:12 While I was with them, I protected and preserved them by Your name, the name You gave Me. Not one of them has been lost, except the son of destruction, so that the Scripture would be fulfilled.
- John 6:39 And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that I shall lose none of those He has given Me, but raise them up at the last day.
- 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.
- Isaiah 40:11 He tends His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. He gently leads the nursing ewes.
- John 10:27 My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.
- Zechariah 13:7 Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd, against the man who is My Companion, declares the LORD of Hosts. Strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered, and I will turn My hand against the little ones.
- Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
- Matthew 6:9 So then, this is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.
- Luke 12:32 Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom.
- John 21:15 When they had finished eating, Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love Me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “You know I love You.” Jesus replied, “Feed My lambs.”