“Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 19:14
Children Belong to God’s Kingdom
As we reflect on our faith, one of the most wonderful truths we discover is that children hold a special place in God’s heart. Jesus emphasized this when he welcomed little ones, showing us that they are valued and significant in His kingdom. Our role as adults is to nurture their spiritual growth and guide them toward salvation. God has made it clear that children are not just our future; they are precious members of His family right now. Their innocence and faith remind us of the pure trust we should have in the Lord. We, as a congregation and community, have the responsibility to ensure that children understand their worth and the gospel message. It’s a beautiful calling we share.
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
Luke 18:16
“But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” – Luke 18:16
Isaiah 54:13
“All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.” – Isaiah 54:13
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
Psalms 127:3
“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” – Psalms 127:3
God’s Promise of Salvation
We all know the importance of promises, especially those that hold the weight of eternal significance. God has made a beautiful promise regarding salvation that encompasses even our children. Through Jesus, we are guaranteed that salvation is available to everyone, including the little ones. This assurance encourages us to teach our kids about the love and grace of God. Our faith can help weave the fabric of their beliefs early on, so they will hold that promise close to their hearts. It is crucial for us to talk openly about salvation, making it clear that they are welcomed into God’s family from a young age.
Acts 16:31
“And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” – Acts 16:31
Romans 10:13
“For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” – Romans 10:13
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Matthew 18:14
“So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” – Matthew 18:14
John 1:12
“But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” – John 1:12
Guiding Children in Faith
As we guide our children in their journey of faith, we realize how essential our role is. Creating an environment where they can learn and grow in understanding is vital. We do this through prayer, teaching, and leading by example. It is within our homes and communities that we cultivate their hearts toward grace, love, and the salvation offered by Jesus Christ. When we share stories from the Bible and allow them to ask questions, we nurture their curiosity. Our desire is to lead them to have their own personal relationships with God that flourish as they grow.
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
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
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
Colossians 3:21
“Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.” – Colossians 3:21
Proverbs 1:8
“Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching.” – Proverbs 1:8
The Role of Prayer in Children’s Salvation
Engaging in prayer is one of the most powerful ways we can support our children on their road toward salvation. Prayer expresses our faith, hope, and love for them as we intercede on their behalf. Bringing our children before God in prayer allows us to cover them with His protection and guidance. We can ask the Holy Spirit to instill in them a desire for truth and a longing to know Him. As we pray, we remind ourselves that we are not alone in this journey—God is actively working in their lives. This reassurance motivates us to keep praying, trusting that He hears our pleas for their spiritual growth.
Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6
James 5:16
“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” – James 5:16
1 Thessalonians 5:17
“Pray without ceasing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Matthew 21:22
“And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” – Matthew 21:22
1 John 5:14
“And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.” – 1 John 5:14
Teaching Children About Jesus
When we share the stories and teachings of Jesus with children, we lay the foundation for their faith. These stories give them insight into the loving nature of God and how they can have a personal relationship with Him. We can create interactive and engaging ways to introduce them to the life of Jesus and His miracles. As we explain, we show them that faith is not just a distant concept but a living experience. We encourage them to ask questions and explore their faith deeper. This engagement can spark a lifelong relationship that leads them closer to salvation.
John 14:6
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – John 14:6
Mark 10:45
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45
Matthew 7:7
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14
Romans 5:8
“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
The Love of God for Children
God’s love for children is profound and unwavering. Throughout the scriptures, we see countless examples of how He cares for the young and vulnerable. His heart delights in them, and He longs for them to know Him. As we teach our children about His love, we must also show it through our actions and words. Let us be the hands and feet of Jesus, reflecting His love in our interactions with the younger generation. By demonstrating compassion, acceptance, and patience, we create a safe space for children to explore faith and discover the depths of God’s love for them.
Jeremiah 31:3
“I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.” – Jeremiah 31:3
Zephaniah 3:17
“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” – Zephaniah 3:17
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
Psalm 103:17
“But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children’s children.” – Psalm 103:17
Matthew 7:11
“If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” – Matthew 7:11
Final Thoughts
As we explore the topic of children’s salvation, we recognize how vital it is to support our young ones in their spiritual journeys. Our role is essential—through loving guidance, teaching, and prayer, we help them understand God’s promise of salvation. We have seen in the scriptures that children are not only a gift but also a significant part of God’s kingdom. Together, we can celebrate the love He has for them and the promise of eternal life through Jesus. Every child has the potential to grow in faith and become leaders in our faith community, and it’s up to us to nurture that growth.
Let us rejoice in our responsibility and opportunity to teach children about Jesus and God’s unfailing love. Their salvation matters and, together, we can show them the beauty of belonging to Christ. We can encourage each other to lead, pray, and share stories that spark their curiosity and passion for God’s love.
If you want to read more about how Jesus loves children, check out these Bible verses about Jesus loving children. For guidance on how to lead children in faith, explore these Bible verses about leading children.