What Does Jesus Say About Children
SCRIPTURE FOCUS:
Luke 18:15-17 & Matthew 21:15-17
Jesus talks about children a couple of times in scripture. One of the most famous instances is found in Luke 18:15-17, where parents are bringing their children to Jesus, however, the disciples stop them. Jesus responds by telling the disciples that the children should come to Him because the Kingdom of Heaven is open to all–especially the young ones.
"People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.â€
- Luke 18:15-17
- Luke 18:15-17
During the time of Jesus, and even still today, children can be looked down on because of their age. Whether we intend to or not, children can be left feeling voiceless or unimportant. Jesus, however, stood up for their right to His kingdom.
Children are a vital part of the ministry of Jesus.
Another example of this is found in Matthew 21:15-17. Jesus had just ridden into Jerusalem with the cries of Hosanna echoing behind Him and was performing miracles in the temple. The Pharisees were questioning his identity amongst themselves when children began prophesying that He was the Son of David. The Pharisees reprimanded Jesus–and He responded to them saying: “Have you never read: From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise?†The children were the only ones who could recognize Jesus as the prophesied Messiah.
"But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple courts, “Hosanna to the Son of David,†they were indignant. “Do you hear what these children are saying?†they asked him. “Yes,†replied Jesus, “have you never read, “‘From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise’?" And he left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where he spent the night."
- Matthew 21:15-17
- Matthew 21:15-17
There are so many stories even today of children–some of them toddlers–who heard the voice of God and led their unbelieving family to the Lord! So be encouraged today in knowing that God loves the little children and has given them unlimited access to His kingdom–just as you and I. Praying blessings and favor over you and your family today!
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