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Document Details :

Title: Matthew 18,1-14 and the Exposure and Sexual Abuse of Children in the Roman World
Author(s): ZELYCK, Lorne
Journal: Biblica
Volume: 98    Issue: 1   Date: 2017   
Pages: 37-54
DOI: 10.2143/BIB.98.1.3197384

Abstract :
The common interpretation of Matt 18,1-14 in modern scholarship contends that this pericope is a warning to the disciples to prevent them from leading a fellow disciple away from the faith. Based on significant parallels between Matt 18,6-10, Matt 5,27-30, b. Nid. 13, and Apoc. Pet. 8, this article suggests an alternative interpretation where Jesus presents eschatological warnings of divine retribution against any disciple who scandalizes children through sexual abuse or exposure, rather than welcoming them and providing for their needs.

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