Dictionary of Bible Themes: 8205 childlikeness

8205 childlikeness

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 8000 The life of the believer » 8200 The character of the believer » 8205 childlikeness

An attitude of simple trust and faith, to be distinguished from childishness. It is commended by Scripture as an appropriate attitude for the believer to take towards God.

God treats his people like children

Psalm 103:13 See also Numbers 11:12; Isaiah 49:15; Isaiah 66:13; Jeremiah 31:20; Hosea 11:1-4; Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 4:1-7

God's people should respond to God as children to a parent

In trust

Psalm 131:2

In obedience

1 Peter 1:14

In humility

Luke 9:46-48 pp Matthew 18:2-5 pp Mark 9:33-37 See also 1 Kings 3:7 Solomon

In innocence

Mark 10:13-15 pp Matthew 19:13-14 pp Luke 18:15-17 See also Luke 10:21

In imitating a model

Ephesians 5:1-2 See also 1 John 3:10

Childlikeness is reflected in pastoral care

1 Thessalonians 2:7 See also 1 John 2:28

Childlikeness is to be distinguished from immature childishness

1 Corinthians 3:1-3 See also Hebrews 5:12-6:1