How does Matthew 19:15 connect to Psalm 127:3 about children as blessings? Jesus’ Blessing in Matthew 19:15 • Matthew 19:15: “And after He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there.” • The physical act of laying hands shows Jesus personally affirming each child’s worth. • In the wider context (vv. 13-14) He insists children must not be hindered, because “the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” • His blessing treats children not as interruptions but as honored recipients of divine favor. Children as God’s Reward in Psalm 127:3 • Psalm 127:3: “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward.” • “Heritage” (nachalah) speaks of an allotted inheritance—a tangible gift entrusted by God. • “Reward” (sakar) underscores value, benefit, and intentional goodness from the Lord. • The verse frames children as evidence of God’s ongoing covenant blessing. How the Verses Intersect • Shared theme of blessing: Psalm 127 calls children a “reward”; Matthew 19 shows Jesus actively bestowing blessing. • Divine ownership: Both passages highlight that children ultimately belong to the Lord; parents and communities are stewards. • Affirmation over utility: Jesus’ embrace of children mirrors the psalmist’s declaration that their worth is intrinsic, not based on productivity. • Continuity from Old to New Testament: Jesus fulfills and models the Old Testament truth that children are God-given treasures. Wider Scriptural Echoes • Genesis 1:28—God’s first blessing includes “Be fruitful and multiply.” • Deuteronomy 6:6-7—Parents instructed to teach children diligently, treating them as sacred trust. • Proverbs 17:6—“Grandchildren are the crown of the aged.” • Mark 10:16—Parallel account where Jesus “took the children in His arms, placed His hands on them, and blessed them.” • James 1:17—“Every good and perfect gift is from above,” reinforcing children as God-given gifts. Key Themes to Embrace • Blessing is both declarative (Psalm 127) and demonstrative (Matthew 19). • Stewardship: Parents are to nurture, teach, and protect what God has entrusted. • Community responsibility: Jesus’ rebuke of the disciples warns churches not to obstruct children’s access to Him. • Celebration: Recognizing children as heritage shapes attitudes toward family size, adoption, foster care, and discipleship. Living It Out Today • Welcome children in homes, churches, and community life as carriers of kingdom promise. • Speak words of blessing—out loud—over sons, daughters, and the next generation. • Invest time in discipling children, reflecting Jesus’ priority. • Guard against cultural pressures that treat children as burdens; instead echo Scripture’s declaration that they are rewards. |
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