But if anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. – Matthew 18:6
The Value of a Child
We often find ourselves in awe of how much Jesus valued children. In His teachings, He not only acknowledges them but also elevates their status, reminding us of their importance in the Kingdom of Heaven. Every child holds an intrinsic value and is a precious creation of God. We are called to honor and protect them, cherishing their innocence. Our actions towards children can either build them up or tear them down. The Scriptures offer us guidance about nurturing these young lives rather than causing them harm, emphasizing that every interaction with them should reflect God’s love and goodness.
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
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
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 to such belongs the kingdom of God.” – Luke 18:16
Proverbs 22:6
Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. – Proverbs 22:6
Psalm 127:3
Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. – Psalm 127:3
The Protection of Children
As believers, we are given the privilege and responsibility to safeguard children from harm. The Bible provides numerous assurances and directives about protecting those who are vulnerable and innocent. God’s heart clearly emphasizes the need for us to stand as protectors and advocates for children. This calling as stewards also means we are to speak out against any form of abuse or neglect. By striving to provide a safe environment for children, we reflect the character of God and fulfill His commandments to love and care for one another. In doing so, we create a strong foundation for their future.
Isaiah 54:13
All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace. – Isaiah 54:13
James 1:27
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. – James 1:27
Matthew 25:40
The King will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40
Deuteronomy 10:18
He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. – Deuteronomy 10:18
Luke 9:48
Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.” – Luke 9:48
The Dangers of Harming Children
In the Scriptures, we see severe consequences prescribed for anyone who would harm a child. The Bible doesn’t take lightly the act of inflicting pain on the innocent. Harmful actions towards children can lead to irreversible impacts on their lives, debilitating their future potential. We are called to build a shelter of love and safety around them rather than contributing to or allowing harm. It is a reminder that our Creator sees the hearts of children and holds us accountable for our actions. Let’s become beacons of hope and safety for our children by rejecting harm in every form.
Mark 10:18
“Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone.” – Mark 10:18
1 John 3:10
This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister. – 1 John 3:10
Matthew 18:5
And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. – Matthew 18:5
Proverbs 29:15
The rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left undisciplined disgrades its mother. – Proverbs 29:15
Matthew 5:18
For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. – Matthew 5:18
The Responsibility of Parents and Guardians
As parents and guardians, we have a tremendous gift and responsibility entrusted to us: to raise children in an environment filled with love, respect, and guidance. The Bible provides us with wisdom and instructions on how to lead our children, emphasizing the importance of nurturing and discipline. We must work together to create an atmosphere where children feel safe and can thrive. This means being aware of our words and actions towards them, guiding their hearts to understand goodness, and teaching them about the love of Christ. Our role is fundamental in shaping their lives.
Ephesians 6:4
Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. – Ephesians 6:4
Colossians 3:21
Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. – Colossians 3:21
Proverbs 1:8
Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. – Proverbs 1:8
Proverbs 13:24
Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them. – Proverbs 13:24
1 Timothy 5:8
Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. – 1 Timothy 5:8
The Call for Community Support
In our Christian walk, we are reminded that we are not alone. Building a loving and supportive community contributes to the well-being of children. Together, as a church body, we can stand against harm and offer compassion, assistance, and guidance. We are encouraged to play our part in supporting parents and caregivers, ensuring that children in our community grow up surrounded by love. Building a network of encouragement helps create a strong foundation for children, ensuring they have the resources and guidance they need to flourish.
Acts 20:35
In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” – Acts 20:35
Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24-25
Psalms 133:1
How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! – Psalms 133:1
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Proverbs 27:17
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. – Proverbs 27:17
The Importance of Teaching Right from Wrong
Part of our duty towards children includes teaching them about right and wrong. In a world that often blurs the lines, we are called to be their guiding light. The Scriptures emphasize the need for right teaching so that children grow up with a clear understanding of moral standards. As they learn what’s right through our teaching and example, they become equipped to make good choices and lead lives that honor God. This foundational lesson is vital for their development and directly impacts their future.
Proverbs 6:23
For this command is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and correction and instruction are the way to life. – Proverbs 6:23
Deuteronomy 6:7
Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. – Deuteronomy 6:7
Proverbs 4:1
Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. – Proverbs 4:1
Colossians 3:16
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. – Colossians 3:16
Romans 14:19
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. – Romans 14:19
Final Thoughts
As we have explored these scripture passages about harming a child, it becomes clear that children are precious in the eyes of God. Our commitment as a community is to protect, cherish, and nurture them, ensuring they grow in a loving environment. We have a shared responsibility to teach them right from wrong, guiding them towards a future filled with hope and righteousness. Our actions and words towards children hold great significance, and they reflect our love for God.
Let’s take these teachings to heart and love our children as God has loved us. Let’s create a culture of kindness and protection, ensuring that every child feels valued and cherished within our community. We can come together as parents, guardians, and allies, making a promise to stand up for the well-being of the little ones in our lives.
If you are interested in extending your curiosity further, consider exploring Bible verses about forgiving children or Bible verses about fostering. Together, we can commit ourselves to growing in faith as we apply these teachings in our lives.