“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
Jesus’ Love for Children
As we explore the teachings about children and Jesus, we are encouraged to recognize the special place that children hold in His heart. Jesus welcomed children with open arms and emphasized their importance in the kingdom of God. His actions remind us to embrace our youth with love, grace, and understanding. When we learn about how Jesus valued children, it inspires us to do the same, nurturing their faith and allowing them to flourish in the warmth of His love.
Mark 10:14
“When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, ‘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
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 to such belongs the kingdom of God.’” – Luke 18:16
Matthew 19:14
“But 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 10:16
“And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” – Mark 10:16
Children as Examples of Faith
In our walk of faith, we can learn so much from the innocence and simplicity of children. Jesus encourages us to embrace this childlike faith as we strive to connect with God. By seeing life through the lens of a child, we gain insights into trusting and believing without reservation. When we reflect on this, we recognize that nurturing our faith is much like how we guide our children—you are reminded that faith can be a source of joy and wonder.
Matthew 18:4
“Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:4
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
1 John 3:1
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” – 1 John 3:1
John 1:12
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” – John 1:12
Romans 8:16
“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” – Romans 8:16
The Role of Parents
As we come together as families, we are reminded that parents hold a crucial responsibility in the spiritual upbringing of their children. We have the incredible opportunity to guide our kids in their faith journey, teaching them about Jesus’ love and grace. Our actions and words shape their understanding of God, allowing them to form their own deep connections with Him. By investing time in their spiritual growth, we create an environment that reflects His love, leading our children to a strong and lasting faith.
Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” – Ephesians 6:4
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
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 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 6:6-7
Colossians 3:21
“Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” – Colossians 3:21
Psalm 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” – Psalm 127:3
Teaching Children About Jesus
It’s a beautiful responsibility we have as individuals to share the message of Jesus with the younger generation. By teaching our children about His life, teachings, and sacrifice, we introduce them to a loving relationship with God. This knowledge empowers our kids to navigate their faith with confidence, helping them form their own connections with Christ. When we share these stories, we ignite a spark in their hearts—a desire to embrace His love and walk in His ways.
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
2 Timothy 3:15
“And how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” – 2 Timothy 3:15
Psalm 78:4
“We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.” – Psalm 78:4
Proverbs 3:1-2
“My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.” – Proverbs 3:1-2
Philippians 4:9
“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” – Philippians 4:9
Valuing Every Child
In a world that often overlooks the significance of the smallest among us, we are reminded by Jesus that every child is truly valuable in His eyes. They are not only our future but also a vital part of God’s plan. By honoring and valuing each child, we contribute to a loving community that nurtures the hearts and souls of those around us. By recognizing their worth and potential, we can uplift and inspire them to grow, encouraging them to reach their full God-given purpose.
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
Matthew 10:42
“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” – Matthew 10:42
1 Corinthians 13:11
“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.” – 1 Corinthians 13:11
Matthew 18:10
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.” – Matthew 18:10
Galatians 3:26
“So in Christ Jesus, you are all children of God through faith.” – Galatians 3:26
Children’s Faith in Action
Children have a remarkable way of demonstrating faith and trust in God. They believe wholeheartedly in His promises, reminding us that faith can be simple yet powerful. We can adopt their genuine way of believing, fortifying our own relationship with Christ. By encouraging our children to express their faith in actions—whether through love, kindness, or service—we help them grow closer to Jesus, while shining His light in whatever they do. Let’s learn from their innocent expressions of faith and follow their example.
Mark 11:24
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” – Mark 11:24
Romans 10:10
“For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” – Romans 10:10
Matthew 21:15-16
“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”?’” – Matthew 21:15-16
Luke 1:37
“For no word from God will ever fail.” – Luke 1:37
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1
Final Thoughts
Throughout this exploration of bible verses about children and Jesus, we see the importance Jesus placed on children. They are not only valued but serve as examples for all of us. It’s truly inspiring to understand how much we can learn from their simple faith and trust in God.
As we reflect on the role of parents and the responsibility we have in shaping the next generation, we are called to nurture their relationship with Jesus. Our love and guidance can set them on the right path, building strong foundations of faith.
Let us continue to welcome children into our communities, encouraging their spirits and embracing their inherent value. We must remember to teach them the beautiful promises of Jesus and support their journeys of faith.
For further reading on love and children, explore bible verses about love and children or learn more about how Jesus loves children with bible verses about Jesus loving children.