Jesus and the Children: Welcoming the Little Ones
Jesus and the Children: Welcoming the Little Ones
Introduction
In a world that often overlooks the weak, the small, and the unimportant, Jesus did something radical—He stopped for the children.
While His disciples saw them as a distraction, Jesus saw them as a living lesson in faith. While the religious elite valued status and knowledge, Jesus lifted up a child and said, "The kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." (Matthew 19:14)
This is more than a sweet story—it’s a revolutionary truth. God’s kingdom isn’t just for the strong, the wise, or the powerful. It’s for the humble, the trusting, the childlike.
Let’s revisit this moment—and discover what it means for us today.
The Scene: A Disciples’ Mistake and a Divine Correction
One day, parents were bringing their little ones to Jesus, hoping He would bless them. But the disciples, perhaps thinking Jesus was too important for such trivial things, "rebuked them." (Mark 10:13)
Imagine the scene:
Eager mothers lifting toddlers toward Him.
Fathers nudging shy children forward.
The disciples blocking them, saying, "Not now. He’s busy."
Then Jesus stepped in.
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." (Mark 10:14)
With those words, He shattered cultural norms.
Why This Was Shocking
In ancient times, children had little status. They were often seen as insignificant until they grew old enough to contribute. But Jesus didn’t just allow them to come—He welcomed them.
And then He went further.
The Lesson: Becoming Like a Child
Jesus didn’t just bless the children and move on. He used them as a living sermon.
"Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 18:3)
What did He mean?
1. Trust Without Reservation
Children don’t overcomplicate faith. They believe simply. When Jesus said, "Follow Me," they didn’t argue theology—they just came.
Adults debate, doubt, and demand signs. But Jesus said faith like a child’s is the key to the kingdom.
2. Humility Without Pretense
Children know they’re small. They don’t pretend to be self-sufficient. Jesus was saying: "Admit your need. Stop trying to earn your way. Come to Me dependent, just as they are."
3. Joy Without Inhibition
When children run to someone they love, they don’t hold back. They laugh, hug, and climb into their arms. Jesus wants us to approach Him with that same abandon.
The Warning: Don’t Hinder Them
Jesus didn’t just welcome children—He gave a stern warning to those who would push them away:
"If anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for them to have a millstone hung around their neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea." (Matthew 18:6)
This wasn’t hyperbole. Jesus was deadly serious about protecting the faith of the young.
How We Hinder Children Today
Neglecting their spiritual nurture (Deuteronomy 6:7)
Modeling hypocrisy instead of authentic faith
Dismissing their questions and doubts
Jesus didn’t see them as future believers—He valued them now.
The Invitation: Come as You Are
This story isn’t just about kids—it’s about all of us.
We’re the ones who:
Overcomplicate faith with endless doubts
Try to earn God’s love through performance
Hold back instead of running to Him
Jesus says: "Come like a child. Trust Me simply. Let Me bless you."
Conclusion: Welcoming the Childlike Heart
The world says:
"Grow up."
"Be strong."
"Prove yourself."
Jesus says:
"Come small."
"Trust simply."
"Let Me hold you."
Today, whether you’re a weary parent, a doubting seeker, or someone who’s tried to outgrow childlike faith—Jesus is calling you.
Not to be more impressive.
Just to come.
And find rest in His arms.
Amen.