In what ways can we welcome children in our church as Jesus did? Scripture Snapshot • “But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ • And after He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there.” What Jesus Did • He welcomed children publicly. • He defended their right to approach Him. • He physically touched and blessed them. • He affirmed their value in God’s kingdom. Heart Posture to Imitate • Humility—Matthew 18:2-4 • Tenderness—Mark 10:16 • Joyful expectation—Psalm 127:3 • Protective love—Ephesians 6:4 Practical Ways to Welcome Children Today • Warm greetings at the door—help them feel seen the moment they arrive. • Safe, clean, and cheerful environments—demonstrate honor for their well-being. • Age-appropriate teaching that is Scripture-centered—Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Proverbs 22:6. • Inclusion in corporate worship—let them sing, read Scripture, pray, serve. • Personal blessing—leaders and members regularly speak words of life and affirmation. • Intergenerational relationships—pair families or older saints with children for mentoring. • Engage their gifts—encourage participation in music, art, technology, missions projects. • Consistent discipline and guidance—loving boundaries reflect God’s holiness. • Special times of focused prayer over children—Mark 10:16 pattern. • Celebrate milestones publicly—baptisms, memory verses, acts of service. Supporting Passages • Matthew 18:5—“Whoever welcomes a little child like this in My name welcomes Me.” • Psalm 78:4—“We will not hide them from their children; we will declare to the next generation the praises of the LORD…” • 1 Timothy 4:12—adults set the example so youth can do likewise. Action Steps for Leaders and Congregation • Audit current ministries: remove any hindrances to children’s access to Scripture and fellowship. • Train volunteers thoroughly—background checks, child-safety protocols, gospel clarity. • Resource parents—send lesson summaries, Scripture memory cards, and conversation guides home each week. • Model Christ’s welcome—adults intentionally sit near, greet, and converse with children during gatherings. • Pray regularly for their salvation and growth—Philippians 1:6 confidence for their future in Christ. The Result We Pursue When children are received as Jesus received them, the whole church experiences fresh faith, deeper unity, and a living picture of the kingdom that “belongs to such as these.” |
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