The Children

Lesson 19: Children (Matthew 19:13)
Key Verse:
"Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them, but the disciples rebuked them." — Matthew 19:13 (NIV)

1. Name and Identity
The passage speaks of children in general, brought to Jesus by their parents.
These children represent innocence, humility, and dependency on God.
They symbolize the qualities necessary to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 19:14).

2. Marital Status
Not applicable, as they were young children, likely unmarried and under the care of their parents.

3. Setting and Place Lived
This event took place in Judea, beyond the Jordan (Matthew 19:1).
Jesus was traveling and teaching, drawing crowds wherever He went.

4. Known For
Representing humility and dependence on God.
Being welcomed and blessed by Jesus, despite the disciples trying to prevent them.
Demonstrating the heart posture required for entering God’s kingdom (Matthew 19:14).

5. Time Frame or Date
Occurred around 30-33 AD, during Jesus’ public ministry.
This event happened shortly before His final journey to Jerusalem, leading to His crucifixion.

6. Occupation
As children, they had no official occupation.
Their role in society was primarily learning, growing, and being under the care of their families.

7. Strengths
Faith and Trust: Children naturally trust and depend on others, which Jesus uses as a model for faith in God (Matthew 18:3-4).
Humility: They have no status or pride, making them the perfect example of spiritual openness.
Receptiveness to Blessings: Unlike the Pharisees who doubted, children gladly received Jesus’ blessing.

8. Weaknesses
Vulnerability: They depended entirely on others for survival, making them susceptible to neglect or harm.
Lack of Knowledge: They needed guidance and teaching, as they were still growing in understanding.

9. Memorable Quotes
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." — Matthew 19:14
"Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." — Matthew 18:3

10. Cross-Reference Scriptures
Psalm 127:3-5 – Children are a heritage from the Lord.
Proverbs 22:6 – Train up a child in the way he should go.
Isaiah 11:6 – A prophecy about children leading in the kingdom.
Mark 10:13-16 – A parallel account of Jesus blessing the children.
Luke 18:15-17 – Another version of the story, emphasizing Jesus' love for children.

11. Hebrew & Greek Name Meanings
Children (Hebrew: יֶלֶד - yeled) – Meaning "young child" or "offspring."
Children (Greek: παιδίον - paidion) – Meaning "little child" or "infant," emphasizing smallness and dependence.

12. Application & Reflection
Do we approach God with childlike faith and humility?
How can we encourage children to know and love Jesus?
Are we willing to trust God completely, as a child trusts their parent?