“Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” – Mark 10:14
The Invitation to Children
We often find Jesus opening His arms wide, welcoming children with love and kindness. In the Bible, we see that Jesus encourages children to come to Him, teaching us the importance of their innocent faith. Children are not just the future of the church but are precious in the eyes of our Savior. His words remind us that we should never hinder them from coming to Him, as they possess a unique ability to believe wholeheartedly. This invitation is a testament to the love that God has for each child and the special place they hold in His heart.
Mark 10:14
“But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.'” – Mark 10:14
Matthew 18:3
“And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.'” – Matthew 18:3
Luke 18:16
“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.'” – Luke 18:16
Matthew 19:14
“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'” – Matthew 19:14
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
The Value of Children
As we think about how children come to Jesus, we begin to understand the incredible value that they hold in God’s eyes. Jesus instructs us to appreciate and nurture their faith, recognizing that they exemplify qualities we should all strive for. They show us what it means to believe without hesitation and love unconditionally. Seeing the world through the eyes of a child can inspire us in our relationships with God and others. It’s our calling to teach them about His love, as they remind us that faith can be simple and pure.
Psalm 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” – Psalm 127:3
James 1:17
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” – James 1:17
Luke 1:17
“And he will go before the Lord in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.” – Luke 1:17
Matthew 18:10
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew 18:10
Mark 9:37
“Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.” – Mark 9:37
The Teaching of Children
As followers of Christ, we are called to teach our children the Word of God. It is not just our responsibility, but also a joy to pass on the wisdom found in Scripture. Children are eager learners, and we can nurture their desire to know Jesus through teaching. By sharing God’s stories and lessons, we help them understand His love and grace. Every moment spent teaching them prepares their hearts and minds to receive God’s truth, guiding them in their own relationship with Him.
Deuteronomy 6:7
“You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” – Deuteronomy 6:7
Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” – Ephesians 6:4
2 Timothy 3:15
“And how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” – 2 Timothy 3:15
Psalms 78:4
“We will not hide them from their children but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.” – Psalm 78:4
Colossians 3:21
“Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.” – Colossians 3:21
The Blessing of Children
Children are a true blessing from God, and as believers, we should recognize the importance of this gift. When we bring our children to Jesus, we are inviting them to experience the fullness of His love and grace. There is great joy in watching them grow in faith and understanding of their relationship with God. Let us celebrate our children and be mindful of how we can encourage their walk with Jesus. They bring energy, laughter, and light into our lives, and nurturing their faith means supporting their dreams and aspirations.
Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14
Isaiah 54:13
“All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.” – Isaiah 54:13
Mark 10:16
“And he took them in his arms and began blessing them, laying his hands on them.” – Mark 10:16
Luke 2:40
“And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.” – Luke 2:40
Proverbs 3:33
“The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the dwelling of the righteous.” – Proverbs 3:33
Your Role as Parents
As parents, we have a special role in guiding our children to Jesus. It is our responsibility to create an environment that fosters faith, showing them what it means to love and follow Christ. We need to emphasize God’s values in our daily lives so that our children can learn what it looks like to walk in His ways. By being examples of Jesus’ love, it becomes easier for them to see His goodness and embrace their faith wholeheartedly. We can help cultivate their spiritual growth with encouragement and support.
1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
“For you know how, like a father with his children, we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
Hebrews 12:1
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.” – Hebrews 12:1
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
Philippians 4:9
“What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” – Philippians 4:9
The Joy of Salvation
When our children come to Jesus, there is an abundance of joy that follows. The Bible reassures us that accepting Christ leads not only to salvation but to a life filled with purpose and hope. Encouraging them to form their own relationships with Jesus is crucial; we can guide and love them through this beautiful experience. The transformation that takes place in their hearts is incredible, and as they grow in faith and trust, they reflect His light in the world. We rejoice with the angels when even one of these little ones finds their way to the Savior.
Romans 10:9
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” – Romans 10:9
John 10:9
“I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture.” – John 10:9
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Acts 16:31
“They replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.'” – Acts 16:31
1 John 5:11-12
“And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life.” – 1 John 5:11-12
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the scriptures about children coming to Jesus, we see how vital their presence is in the Kingdom of God. Their faith inspires us and teaches us valuable lessons about trusting in Him wholeheartedly. It’s clear that we must cherish and guide them, ensuring they know the love and grace of our Savior. As we engage with our children and encourage their spiritual journeys, we witness the beauty of God’s love unfold in their lives.
Through our actions and teachings, we have the opportunity to nurture their faith, preparing them to walk boldly in Christ. Let us lift up our children in prayer and support them as they grow in their relationships with Him. When we do, we not only secure a place for them in Heaven but also enrich our lives with the joy they bring.
If you’re eager to explore more about how we can intertwine love and faith into our children’s lives, consider browsing our topics on love and children and Jesus loving children.