In the Bible, children and nursing infants are often depicted as symbols of innocence, purity, and the future hope of God's people. They are frequently mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting their significance in the biblical narrative and God's covenantal promises.

Old Testament References

In the Old Testament, children are seen as a blessing from God and a sign of His favor. Psalm 127:3-5 states, "Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them." This passage underscores the value placed on children as gifts from God and integral to the continuation of family and faith.

The Mosaic Law also includes specific instructions regarding the care and protection of children. For instance, Deuteronomy 6:6-7 commands, "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." This directive emphasizes the importance of imparting God's commandments to the next generation.

Nursing infants are mentioned in contexts that highlight vulnerability and dependence. In the book of Isaiah, the prophet speaks of a time of peace and restoration when "the nursing child will play by the cobra’s den, and the weaned child will put his hand into the viper’s nest" (Isaiah 11:8). This imagery conveys a future hope where even the most vulnerable are safe and secure under God's reign.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, Jesus' interactions with children further illuminate their importance in the Kingdom of God. In Matthew 19:14 , Jesus says, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Here, children are not only welcomed by Jesus but are also presented as exemplars of the humility and receptivity required to enter the Kingdom.

The Gospels also recount the account of Jesus blessing the children, an act that signifies their value and the divine love extended to them. Mark 10:16 records, "And He took the children in His arms, placed His hands on them, and blessed them." This blessing underscores the special place children hold in God's heart and plan.

Nursing infants are mentioned in the context of Jesus' teachings and prophecies. In Luke 21:23 , Jesus warns of difficult times, saying, "How miserable those days will be for pregnant and nursing mothers!" This highlights the particular challenges faced by the most vulnerable during times of trial and tribulation.

Theological Significance

Theologically, children and nursing infants represent the purity and potential inherent in God's creation. They are often seen as a metaphor for spiritual rebirth and the new life offered through faith in Christ. In 1 Peter 2:2 , believers are encouraged to "crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation." This metaphor draws on the image of a nursing infant to illustrate the believer's dependence on God's word for spiritual nourishment and growth.

Throughout Scripture, children and nursing infants are reminders of God's faithfulness to His promises and His desire for His people to nurture and protect the vulnerable. They serve as a call to embody the qualities of trust, humility, and openness that characterize a life of faith.