And whoever causes one of these little ones who believes in Me to stumble, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were sunk to the bottom of the sea.
In this saying, Jesus gives the sternest warning to all who, by their words, conduct, or example, cause one of the “little ones” to stumble—that is, those who believe in Him with the simplicity and humility of faith. The image of the “millstone” highlights the weight of sin, showing that such a stumbling is so serious in God’s eyes that bodily death would be lighter than becoming the cause of spiritual ruin. Since these “little ones” are identified with Christ, harming them is regarded as an offense against Christ Himself. Thus Jesus affirms that in the kingdom of God the humble believers are especially protected, and whoever hinders their faith will face the most severe judgment.