Source sequence 60 of 85

Let the Children Come

Prayer, Kingdom of God, Discipleship, Family and parents, Church relationships

Scripture

Primary passage

Matthew 19:13–14

13 Then little children were brought to him that he should lay his hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them. 14 But Jesus said, “Allow the little children, and don’t forbid them to come to me; for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to ones like these.”

Primary passage · World English Bible

Mark

Mark 10:13–16

13 They were bringing to him little children, that he should touch them, but the disciples rebuked those who were bringing them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was moved with indignation and said to them, “Allow the little children to come to me! Don’t forbid them, for God’s Kingdom belongs to such as these. 15 Most certainly I tell you, whoever will not receive God’s Kingdom like a little child, he will in no way enter into it.” 16 He took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.

Unreviewed grouped account · World English Bible

The command

Hear what Jesus commands.

Welcome children to Jesus and remove the barriers that keep them from receiving His blessing and kingdom.

In context

Hear the whole passage.

The disciples rebuke people bringing children, but Jesus becomes indignant, welcomes the children, embraces them, and blesses them.

What this reveals

What this reveals about God.

Jesus forms communities where children are welcomed, protected, blessed, and treated as kingdom participants rather than interruptions.

Practice this command

Take one concrete step.

Identify one practical barrier children face in your community and take a child-safe, accountable step to improve welcome, access, attention, or protection.

Discuss

Talk about it.

Which adult priorities or assumptions unintentionally hinder children from coming to Jesus?

Pray

Pray this.

Jesus, make room among us for children. Protect them, bless them, and correct every barrier we create.

Teach

Teach it simply.

Keep welcome joined to safeguarding; access to Jesus never reduces the need for transparent, accountable protection of children.

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