What barriers might prevent children from coming to Jesus in our society? Welcoming Little Ones: Jesus’ Heart in Luke 18:16 “ ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’ ” (Luke 18:16) Why This Matters Today • Jesus’ words are a standing command, not a one-time suggestion. • Hindering happens whenever anything—intentional or accidental—blocks a child’s direct path to Him. Common Barriers in Modern Society Cultural Pressures • Secular worldviews that dismiss faith as outdated (Colossians 2:8). • An entertainment-driven culture that prizes amusement over truth (2 Timothy 3:4). Family Dynamics • Over-scheduled homes that leave little room for family worship (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Broken or distracted parenting, making it harder for children to see a godly model (Ephesians 6:4). Educational Influences • School curricula that exclude or contradict biblical foundations (Psalm 1:1). • Fear of “indoctrinating” children, leading parents to spiritual neutrality. Technological Distractions • Endless screen time replacing time in God’s Word (Psalm 119:9,11). • Social media shaping identity more than Scripture does. Spiritual Counterfeits • Moral relativism that blurs clear lines between right and wrong (Isaiah 5:20). • False teachings that distort the gospel (Galatians 1:6-7). Church-Related Obstacles • Hypocrisy among believers causing disillusionment (Romans 2:24). • Programs that entertain but fail to present the gospel plainly (Romans 10:17). Scripture’s Guidance for Removing These Barriers • Teach diligently “when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way” (Deuteronomy 6:7). • “Train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6). • Guard their hearts: “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Keep the message simple: “From infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures” (2 Timothy 3:15). • Provide living examples: “Imitate me, as I imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). Practical Steps Forward • Schedule daily moments for family Scripture reading—even five focused minutes. • Limit digital noise; create tech-free zones where conversation about Jesus flourishes. • Engage teachers and coaches graciously, making sure your child knows God’s Word is the final authority. • Invite children into worship services so they see adults loving Jesus openly. • Address their questions honestly; truth withstands scrutiny. • Model repentance: confess sins quickly so children witness genuine faith, not perfection. Encouragement for Parents and Leaders Jesus still calls children to Himself. When we clear the path—through intentional homes, Christ-centered churches, and courageous witness—He delights to welcome them, laying His hands on them just as He did in Luke 18. The kingdom truly “belongs to such as these.” |
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