How can we welcome children in our church as Jesus did in Luke 18:15? Jesus Welcomes Little Ones — Luke 18:15 “Now people were even bringing their infants to Him for Him to touch them; but when the disciples saw this, they rebuked them.” Seeing Children Through Jesus’ Eyes • Children are gifts: “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD.” (Psalm 127:3) • They belong to the kingdom: “The kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” (Luke 18:16) • Welcoming them is welcoming Christ: “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in My name welcomes Me.” (Mark 9:37) Practical Ways to Welcome Children in the Church • Warm first impressions – Greeters trained to bend down, smile, and call children by name – Kid-friendly signage and clear directions for parents • Safe, orderly environments – Background-checked volunteers (Matthew 18:6) – Clean classrooms, secure check-in/out • Engaging, Scripture-saturated teaching – Age-appropriate Bible lessons rooted in Deuteronomy 6:6-7 – Encourage Scripture memory (2 Timothy 3:15) • Intergenerational worship moments – Invite children to read Scripture or sing with adults (Psalm 8:2) – Include brief explanations so they grasp what’s happening • Opportunities to serve – Pair older kids with adults on usher teams, tech booths, or outreach prep – Affirm even the smallest act of service (John 6:9) • Consistent prayer and follow-up – Leaders pray by name for each child during the week – Send notes or texts celebrating milestones—baptism, first Bible, birthdays • Celebrate milestones publicly – Dedications, graduations from children’s ministry, first communion – Offer a blessing before the congregation (Mark 10:16) Guarding Their Hearts and Minds • Teach truth clearly, never watering it down (Proverbs 22:6) • Model holiness; children imitate what they see (1 Corinthians 11:1) • Respond quickly to bullying or teasing (Ephesians 4:29) • Protect online and media exposure during church gatherings Learning From Children • Their trust illustrates saving faith (Luke 18:17) • Their humility reflects kingdom greatness (Matthew 18:4) • Their joy refreshes weary hearts (Proverbs 17:22) Living Out Luke 18:15 Today • Value every child as Christ does • Remove obstacles that hinder their approach • Touch their lives with genuine love, truth, and protection |
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