What does Matthew 19:14 teach about the value of childlike faith? Opening Verse “ 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.’ ” (Matthew 19:14) Understanding the Moment • Parents were bringing their youngsters to Jesus for blessing. • Disciples tried to shoo them away, thinking the children unimportant. • Jesus reverses that thinking, highlighting the little ones as models for life in His kingdom. What Jesus Shows Us About Children • They have direct access to Him—no mediator but Christ Himself. • Their presence is welcomed, not merely tolerated. • They illustrate the very people to whom the kingdom “belongs.” Essentials of Childlike Faith • Trusting Dependence – Kids naturally rely on caretakers (see Psalm 131:2). • Humble Simplicity – No pretense, no résumé, just openness (Matthew 18:3–4). • Quick Receptivity – Eager to believe and receive good news (1 Peter 2:2). • Joyful Wonder – Marveling at grace rather than feeling entitled (Psalm 8:2). Why the Kingdom Belongs to Such as These • Salvation is a gift, not an achievement (Ephesians 2:8–9). • Childlike posture admits need and welcomes grace. • Pride bars the door, but humility swings it wide (James 4:6). Living Out Childlike Faith Today • Approach Scripture expecting God to speak. • Pray with honesty—no polished performances. • Obey promptly, even when the command feels simple. • Celebrate answers and blessings with uninhibited gratitude. • Depend on the Father’s provision instead of self-sufficiency (Matthew 6:31–33). Guarding Against Grown-Up Obstacles • Intellectual pride that questions God’s clear word (1 Corinthians 1:20–25). • Busyness that crowds out lingering with Jesus (Luke 10:39–42). • Cynicism born of disappointment; keep bringing hurts to Him (Psalm 62:8). Finishing Thought Childlike faith is not childishness. It is mature enough to know its own smallness and wise enough to trust a great Savior. The door to the kingdom remains low so only the humble can enter—just like the little ones Jesus drew close that day. |
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