In what ways can we prevent hindering children from coming to Jesus? Children Brought to Jesus “Then little children were brought to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them” (Matthew 19:13). “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them” (Matthew 19:14). Recognize Their Value • Jesus calls children to Himself; the kingdom already “belongs to such as these.” • Treat every child as a God-given image-bearer and potential disciple, not a distraction. • Speak blessing, not belittling—even in jest. Words shape how children think God sees them (Proverbs 18:21). Model an Accessible Faith at Home • Keep Scripture visible and audible: – “These words…are to be upon your hearts” (Deuteronomy 6:6). – “And you shall teach them diligently to your children” (Deuteronomy 6:7). • Pray aloud naturally; let kids hear repentance and gratitude. • Share testimonies of answered prayer so they learn God is alive and attentive. • Prioritize gathered worship; your calendar reveals your treasure (Matthew 6:21). Remove Practical Hindrances • Provide child-friendly seating, clear sight lines, and age-appropriate teaching aids. • Limit late-night activities on Saturday so Sunday starts unhurried. • Explain unfamiliar church practices beforehand to reduce anxiety. Guard Against Spiritual Stumbling Blocks • Hypocrisy: live Monday the faith professed Sunday (James 1:22). • Legalism: emphasize grace over performance; rules without relationship breed rebellion. • Harsh discipline: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath” (Ephesians 6:4). • Neglect: children left to navigate culture alone “stumble” (Mark 9:42). Build Welcoming Churches • Train volunteers who love Christ and children more than programs. • Use Scripture memorization, music, and visuals to engage varied learning styles. • Celebrate children’s milestones publicly—baptisms, service projects, Scripture recitations. • Allow them to ask questions; honest curiosity is not irreverence. Invite Them into Ministry • Pair kids with adults on greeting teams, music, setup, or mercy visits. • When they serve, they feel ownership and see faith in action (Philippians 2:4-5). • Encourage giving: a child’s coin offered in faith pleases God (Mark 12:43-44). Anchor Them in the Word • “From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures” (2 Timothy 3:15). • Memorize together—short psalms, promises of Christ, Gospel summaries. • Provide kid-sized Bibles and guide them to read daily, even a verse at a time. Trust the Promise • “Train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6)—faithful sowing invites lifelong harvest. • God delights to work through simple, persistent obedience; His Word “will not return void” (Isaiah 55:11). |
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