Why does Jesus thank the Father for revealing truths to "little children"? Setting the Scene Matthew 11:25-26: “At that time Jesus declared, ‘I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was well-pleasing in Your sight.’” Who Are the “Little Children”? • Not merely young in age, but those who come with childlike humility, dependence, and teachability (cf. Luke 18:17). • People who recognize their spiritual poverty and look to God instead of their own intellect or status (Isaiah 66:2). • Disciples whose hearts are open, rather than critics whose minds are closed. Why Does the Father Reveal to Them? • God delights in humility. “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). • Childlike reliance leaves no room for self-glory; revelation magnifies God’s grace (1 Corinthians 1:26-29). • Spiritual truths require a heart posture, not merely an IQ. “The unfolding of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple” (Psalm 119:130). • This method fulfills divine pleasure: “Yes, Father, for this was well-pleasing in Your sight.” Contrast with the Wise and Learned • “Wise and learned” refers to self-confident scholars and religious elites who trusted credentials over Christ (John 9:39-41). • Their pride blinded them to the Messiah standing before them (Matthew 23:13). • God’s hiding of truth from the arrogant is righteous judgment as well as protection of the gospel’s purity (Proverbs 3:34). The Pattern Throughout Scripture • Gideon’s small army (Judges 7) shows power perfected in weakness. • David, the youngest shepherd, defeats Goliath (1 Samuel 17). • Mary, a humble maiden, receives the incarnation announcement (Luke 1:46-55). The Father consistently chooses the unlikely to spotlight His glory. Implications for Us Today • Approach Scripture with dependence, asking God to open our eyes (Psalm 119:18). • Guard against intellectual pride; learning is a gift, not a pedestal. • Value simplicity and obedience over complexity and notoriety (Micah 6:8). • Welcome and disciple literal children; their trusting hearts model kingdom entry (Mark 10:15). |
    |