Matthew 19:13- “Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them.”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, we see people bringing children to Jesus, hoping He would bless them through prayer and the laying on of hands. This act shows their faith in Jesus’ authority and compassion. However, the disciples rebuke the people, possibly seeing the children as unimportant or a distraction to Jesus’ ministry.
The disciples’ reaction reveals a misunderstanding of Jesus’ priorities. While they seem focused on managing Jesus’ time and energy, Jesus later demonstrates that children hold a special place in His kingdom. This verse sets the stage for a broader teaching about the value of humility, dependence, and faith, as embodied by children.
Historical Context
In first-century Jewish culture, children were often seen as unimportant in society. They were valued for their future potential but were not typically considered central to religious or social activities.
However, the act of bringing children to a rabbi or religious leader for blessing was not uncommon. Parents sought spiritual blessings for their children, especially from someone with a reputation for wisdom and holiness like Jesus. The disciples’ rebuke likely reflected the cultural norm of prioritizing adults and minimizing the role of children in spiritual matters.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the inclusiveness of Jesus’ ministry. By welcoming children (as He does in the next verse), Jesus demonstrates that God’s kingdom is open to all, regardless of age or status. It challenges the idea that only the influential or accomplished are significant in God’s eyes.
It also reminds us of the importance of faith and dependence on God. Children naturally embody these qualities, making them an example for all believers of how to approach God with trust and humility.
Literary Analysis
The contrast between the people’s faith in bringing children to Jesus and the disciples’ rebuke creates a tension that Jesus resolves in the following verse. This structure highlights the disciples’ misunderstanding and provides an opportunity for Jesus to teach an important truth about the kingdom of God.
The act of bringing children to Jesus for blessing emphasizes His role as a compassionate and approachable teacher. The disciples’ reaction serves as a foil, highlighting Jesus’ inclusiveness and care for those whom society often overlooks.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Mark 10:13-16 – A parallel account of this event, emphasizing Jesus’ love for children.
- Luke 18:15-17 – Another parallel account where Jesus blesses children and teaches about the kingdom of God.
- Matthew 18:2-4 – Jesus teaches that humility, like that of a child, is essential for entering the kingdom of heaven.
- Deuteronomy 6:6-7 – The importance of teaching children about God and involving them in spiritual life.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds Christians of the importance of valuing and prioritizing children in the life of the church and in their personal lives. It challenges believers to see children not as distractions or secondary to adult concerns but as vital members of God’s kingdom.
It also calls Christians to embody childlike faith, approaching God with trust, humility, and openness. This verse encourages believers to create an environment where children are welcomed, nurtured, and pointed toward Jesus.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in the way Jesus welcomes children and blesses them. This reflects His care for all people, regardless of their status or abilities. His willingness to spend time with children shows that no one is too small or insignificant to receive His attention and blessing.
This verse also reveals God’s desire for all people to experience His love and grace. By affirming the value of children, Jesus demonstrates that God’s kingdom is open to everyone who comes to Him with a humble and trusting heart.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ interaction with children in this passage reflects His character as a loving and compassionate Savior. He embodies the heart of God, who cares deeply for the vulnerable and the overlooked.
Through His actions, Jesus shows that His ministry is not limited to certain groups but extends to all, including those society might dismiss. This inclusiveness reflects the message of the gospel, which is for everyone who believes, regardless of age or status.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge the way we view children in the church and in our personal lives?
- What can we learn from the faith and humility of children in our relationship with God?
- How can we create an environment where children are welcomed and encouraged to know Jesus?
- In what ways do we sometimes act like the disciples, dismissing certain people as less important in God’s kingdom?
- How does Jesus’ care for children inspire you to reflect His love in your own interactions with others?