Jesus showed deep care for children. His kindness toward them helps us understand God’s heart. When we read the Gospels, we see that children were never pushed aside. Instead, Jesus welcomed them with joy. His actions teach the church how to value the youngest among us.
Jesus Welcomed Children
Many people tried to keep children away from Jesus. They thought He had more important work to do. But Jesus stopped them. He called the children close and made time for them.
“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
This simple moment shows how Jesus sees children. He honors their faith. He pays attention to them when others do not. Jesus sees their worth even when society overlooks them.
- Jesus values every child
- Children can show strong faith
- Adults are called to guard, teach, and welcome them
Jesus Used Children as Examples of Faith
Jesus often pointed to children as models of trust. Their simple belief shows what true faith looks like. They do not try to earn love. They receive it.
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 18:3
Jesus calls believers to show childlike trust. This is not immature thinking. It is humble faith. Children depend on others, and Jesus says His followers must depend on Him.
- Trust
- Openness
- Humility
- Dependence on God
Jesus Protected Children
Jesus also warned adults to treat children with care. Their hearts matter to Him. To harm a child or lead one away from God is serious in His eyes.
“If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” — Matthew 18:6
This warning shows the weight He places on guiding children well. Jesus wants His followers to build them up, not tear them down.
- Teaching truth gently
- Showing patience
- Living with integrity
- Praying for children
Jesus Blessed Children
The Gospels show moments when Jesus laid His hands on children and blessed them. This act showed warmth and care. It also showed God’s love moving toward them.
“And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” — Mark 10:16
This gentle picture shows Jesus in close relationship with children. He does not stand far away. He draws near and offers blessing.
| Jesus’ Action | Meaning for Us |
|---|---|
| Welcomed children | God values them |
| Blessed children | God gives grace freely |
| Protected children | God guards their hearts |
| Pointed to their faith | God uses them to teach adults |
How Believers Can Follow Jesus’ Example
Christians can honor Jesus by valuing children in daily life. Families can nurture faith at home. Churches can raise the next generation with care. Communities can support vulnerable children with compassion and justice.
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” — Proverbs 22:6
Children thrive when adults live out their faith with love. Jesus welcomes them. His people should do the same.
- Pray with children
- Read Scripture to them
- Be patient with questions
- Encourage their gifts
- Model grace and forgiveness
