v.13-16
(1) Disciples and Jesus were different in their perception of the children. The disciples scolded those who brought the children for blessings. Obviously, they thought it was inappropriate or a waste of the time of Jesus. Scriptures aid Jesus was indignant v.14. He disagreed with them. "For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." v.14 "...Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."(NET) The kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Children are a picture of those whose simple trust illustrates what faith is all about. The remark illustrates how everyone is important to God, even those whom others regard as insignificant.
(NET) The point of the comparison receive the kingdom of God like a child has more to do with a child’s trusting spirit and willingness to be dependent and receive from others than any inherent humility the child might possess.
(2) Reflection: Do we underestimate children? We think that they will never understand what we say about the Bible/God/salvation and do not teach them so that they can be saved? When you heard the salvation testimony from someone who said they were saved at a young age do you believe them? Do you think they have to go through a teenage rebellion and then come back then they are saved? Bible has never said that. Jesus said we shall all receive the kingdom of God like a child.
(2) Reflection: Do we underestimate children? We think that they will never understand what we say about the Bible/God/salvation and do not teach them so that they can be saved? When you heard the salvation testimony from someone who said they were saved at a young age do you believe them? Do you think they have to go through a teenage rebellion and then come back then they are saved? Bible has never said that. Jesus said we shall all receive the kingdom of God like a child.
Do we have a child like faith in God? Totally dependent and trusting on God, not by our own merits.
Audrey
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