Title: Jesus Receives Children

Scripture Reading: Mark 10:13-16
^“Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.”

Main idea: Children are valuable. They belong to the kingdom of God

Parents concern for their children
Parents brought children to Jesus to touch them and bless them. (10:13). The blessing of children through the laying on of hands was an ancient Israelite practice, usually done by the child’s father (Gen 27:30; 48:14-16). Disciples rebuke these parents and try to block their children’s access to Jesus. They want to throw their weight around and exercise control by keeping at bay others who come from outside their circle. Jesus indignantly intercede on behalf of the children and inform his disciples that the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Jesus commits children to our loving care, and the church must be in the forefront of helping to care for children and helping parents to care for children. Some may consider children to be liabilities, but the church recognizes that Christ is revealed to us through the child in our midst. Whatever the hinderances are parents must have a concern to bring their children to the church and Bible studies. W. Graham Scroggie said, “Be your best and give your best to the children.”

kingdom of God belongs to such as these
The believer must become as a child to receive the kingdom rather than act like an overseer, who drives others away from Jesus. Receiving the kingdom of God as a little child means to accept it with genuine trustful simplicity, with unassuming humility. Jesus is talking about the simple, unquestioning, trustful manner in which a child accepts what is offered to him. What is it about children that makes them such recipients of the kingdom? Children have no accomplishments with which to earn God’s favor, no status in the society that makes them worthy. In their dependency they exemplify the only disposition that makes entrance into the kingdom possible. This doesn’t mean that we should be childish, immature, or spoiled, but that we should receive the kingdom with a child’s simplicity, honesty and trust. Unless we can completely trust in God, we will never enter the kingdom.

Application
People in Jesus’ day considered children to be insignificant and unimportant. Jesus took time with each child, blessing each as he or she was brought to him. This certainly took time, but Jesus did not rush through the process or pass it off as unimportant. Children are very dear to God. Life is given by God, so children belong to God. God puts children into the care of parents for a short time. Parents are responsible for caring enough to trust God’s power and blessing for their children.

Let’s pray together
Heavenly Father, I thank you for all the parents and their children. Give us Lord wisdom, knowledge and understanding to raise the children in a godly way. In Jesus Name Amen.