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 the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.

Study Bible

But Jesus called the children to Him
In this phrase, we see the intentionality of Jesus. The Greek word for "called" is "προσκαλέω" (proskaleō), which implies a deliberate invitation. Jesus is actively reaching out to the children, demonstrating His desire to include them in His ministry. This action challenges the cultural norms of the time, where children were often seen as insignificant. Jesus' call is a profound statement of their value in the eyes of God.

and said, 'Let the little children come to Me
The phrase "Let the little children come" uses the Greek word "ἄφετε" (aphete), meaning "permit" or "allow." This is a command to remove any barriers preventing children from approaching Him. In the historical context, children were not typically the focus of religious teaching, yet Jesus elevates their status, emphasizing their importance in the spiritual community. This reflects the inclusive nature of the Gospel, where all are welcome.

and do not hinder them!
"Hinder" comes from the Greek "κωλύω" (kōlyō), meaning to prevent or restrain. Jesus is instructing His disciples and followers to remove obstacles that might prevent children from accessing Him. This can be seen as a broader metaphor for removing barriers to faith and spiritual growth. Historically, this directive would have been counter-cultural, as children were not prioritized in religious settings. Jesus' words here are a call to action for believers to facilitate, rather than obstruct, the spiritual journey of others.

For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these
The phrase "the kingdom of God belongs" uses the Greek "ἐστίν" (estin), meaning "is" or "exists." This indicates a present reality, not just a future promise. The kingdom of God is accessible to those who possess childlike qualities such as humility, trust, and openness. In the scriptural context, Jesus often used children as examples of the ideal disposition for receiving God's kingdom. This statement is a radical redefinition of who is considered worthy in God's eyes, emphasizing that status, age, or knowledge are not prerequisites for entering the kingdom. It is a call to embrace a posture of dependence and faith, much like that of a child.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is teaching about the nature of the kingdom of God and the qualities required to enter it.

2. Children
Representing innocence, humility, and dependence, the children are used by Jesus as an example of the kind of faith and openness required to enter the kingdom of God.

3. Disciples
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, the disciples were present and initially rebuked those bringing children to Jesus, prompting His response.

4. The Kingdom of God
A central theme in Jesus' teachings, representing God's sovereign rule and the spiritual realm where His will is fulfilled.

5. Crowd
The broader group of people present, including parents and others who were bringing children to Jesus for blessing.

Teaching Points

Childlike Faith
Embrace a faith characterized by trust, humility, and openness, akin to that of a child. This is essential for entering and experiencing the kingdom of God.

Welcoming Spirit
Cultivate an attitude that welcomes and values children, recognizing their importance in the spiritual community and their ability to teach us about faith.

Barriers to Faith
Reflect on and remove any obstacles that might hinder others, especially children, from coming to Jesus. This includes attitudes, behaviors, or systems that may discourage or prevent access to Him.

Dependence on God
Like children depend on their parents, believers are called to depend on God for guidance, provision, and strength, acknowledging our need for His grace and presence.

Value of Humility
Recognize that humility is a key virtue in the Christian life, as it aligns us with God's will and opens us to His kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities of children does Jesus highlight as essential for entering the kingdom of God, and how can we cultivate these qualities in our own lives?

2. How does Jesus' response to the disciples' actions challenge our own attitudes towards children and those considered "least" in society?

3. In what ways can we remove barriers that might prevent others, especially children, from coming to Jesus in our communities and churches?

4. How does the concept of childlike faith relate to our daily dependence on God, and what practical steps can we take to deepen this dependence?

5. How can we apply the principle of humility, as demonstrated by children, in our interactions with others and in our relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 18:3
Jesus emphasizes the need to become like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven, highlighting humility and trust.

Mark 10:14
A parallel account where Jesus expresses indignation at the disciples' actions, reinforcing the importance of welcoming children.

1 Peter 2:2
Encourages believers to crave pure spiritual milk like newborn babies, emphasizing growth in salvation through childlike faith.

Psalm 8:2
Speaks of God ordaining praise from the mouths of children, illustrating their value and role in God's kingdom.

Proverbs 22:6
Highlights the importance of training children in the way they should go, aligning with Jesus' welcoming attitude towards them.