For
The word "for" serves as a conjunction, linking this verse to the preceding context. It provides a reason or explanation for the actions or teachings that have been discussed. In the broader context of Matthew 18, Jesus is teaching about humility, the value of each individual, and the importance of seeking out those who have gone astray. This conjunction emphasizes that what follows is a foundational truth that underpins His mission and ministry.

the Son of Man
This title, "the Son of Man," is one of Jesus' favorite self-designations, used frequently in the Gospels. It has roots in the Old Testament, particularly in Daniel 7:13-14, where "one like a son of man" is given authority and an everlasting kingdom. In the New Testament, it emphasizes both Jesus' humanity and His divine authority. By using this title, Jesus identifies Himself with humanity while also asserting His messianic role and divine mission.

came
The verb "came" indicates the incarnation of Jesus Christ. It signifies His voluntary descent from heaven to earth, taking on human flesh. This action is central to the Christian faith, as it underscores the belief that God took the initiative to reach out to humanity. The coming of Jesus is a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and a demonstration of God's love and desire to redeem His creation.

to save
The purpose of Jesus' coming is encapsulated in the phrase "to save." The Greek word used here is "sōzō," which means to rescue, deliver, or preserve. This salvation is comprehensive, addressing the spiritual, physical, and eternal needs of humanity. It involves deliverance from sin, reconciliation with God, and the promise of eternal life. This mission of salvation is at the heart of the Gospel message and reflects God's redemptive plan for the world.

the lost
The term "the lost" refers to those who are spiritually estranged from God. In the context of Jesus' teachings, it often includes sinners, outcasts, and those marginalized by society. The Greek word "apollymi" conveys the idea of being destroyed or perishing, highlighting the dire condition of those without Christ. Jesus' mission to save the lost demonstrates His compassion and the inclusive nature of His ministry, reaching out to all who are in need of redemption.

(11) For the Son of man is come.--The words are wanting in many of the best MSS. Assuming their genuineness, two points call for special notice. (1.) The work of the Son of Man in saving that which was lost is given as the ground of the assertion of the special glory of the angels of the little ones. They are, in their ministry, sharers in His work, and that work is the highest expression of the will of the Eternal Father. To one at least of the disciples the words that he now heard must have recalled words that had been addressed to him in the most solemn crisis of his life, when he had been told that he should one day "see the heavens opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man" (John 1:51). In that ascent and descent they were not only doing homage to His glory, but helping Him in His work. (2.) The words seem chosen to exclude the thought that there was any special grace or saintliness in the child round whom our Lord had folded His arms. To Him the child's claim was simply his need and his capacity for all that is implied in salvation. The words which He spake were as true of any "wastrel" child of the streets as of the offspring of the holiest parents.

Verse 11. - This verse is omitted by the Sinaitic and Vatican Manuscripts, and many modern editors, e.g., Lachmann, Tischendort, Tregelles, Westcott and Hort, and the Revised Version; but is retained in many good uncials, nearly all the cursives, the Vulgate, Syriac, etc. It is supposed to be an interpolation from Luke 19:10; but one does not see why, if this is the case, the inter-polater should have left out the striking verb "to seek," which would naturally have coincided with "seeketh" in ver. 12. For expository use, at any rate, we may consider the verse as genuine, and take it as the commencement of the second argument for the dignity of the little ones - the simple and humble, whether children or others. This proof is derived from the action of God towards them. The Son of man is come to save that which was lost (τὸ ἀπολωλός). How can ye despise those whom Christ hath so loved and deemed so precious that he emptied himself of his glory and became man in order to save them? The general term, " that which was lost," is expressed by the neuter participle, to show that there is no exception to the wide scope of Christ's mercy. The race of man is lost; infants are born in sin; all need redemption. Everybody, poor, helpless, ignorant, tempted, comes under this category, and to save such Christ came down from heaven. Therefore their souls are very precious in his sight.

Parallel Commentaries ...


For
γὰρ (gar)
Conjunction
Strong's 1063: For.

the
ὁ (ho)
Article - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article.

Son
υἱὸς (huios)
Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 5207: A son, descendent.

of Man
ἀνθρώπου (anthrōpou)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 444: A man, one of the human race.

has come
Ἦλθεν (Ēlthen)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 2064: To come, go.

to save
σῶσαι (sōsai)
Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active
Strong's 4982: To save, heal, preserve, rescue.

that which
τὸ (to)
Article - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article.

has been lost.
ἀπολωλός (apolōlos)
Verb - Perfect Participle Active - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 622: (a) to kill, destroy, (b) to lose, to be perishing (the resultant death being viewed as certain).


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NT Gospels: Matthew 18:11 For the Son of Man came (Matt. Mat Mt)