◄ Mark 10:14 ►
But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and told them, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
Study Bible
But when Jesus saw this,

Jesus observed the disciples rebuking those bringing children to Him. This reflects His awareness and attentiveness to the actions and attitudes of His followers. In the broader context of Mark 10, Jesus is teaching about the values of the Kingdom of God, contrasting them with worldly values.

Mat 19:14 But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me…
Luk 18:16 But Jesus called the children to Him and said,…

He was indignant

Jesus' indignation highlights His deep displeasure with the disciples' actions. This emotion underscores the importance He places on children and their access to Him. It also reflects His broader mission of inclusivity and love, challenging societal norms that often marginalized the vulnerable.

Mrk 3:5 Jesus looked around at them with anger and sorrow…
Jhn 2:15-16 So He made a whip out of cords and drove all from the temple…

and told them,

Jesus directly addresses His disciples, emphasizing His role as a teacher and leader. His words are authoritative, correcting their misunderstanding of His mission and the nature of the Kingdom of God.

Mat 18:3 “Truly I tell you,” He said, “unless you change…”…
Luk 9:48 And He said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child…

“Let the little children come to Me,

Jesus invites the children, symbolizing openness and acceptance. In the cultural context, children were often seen as insignificant, yet Jesus elevates their status, illustrating the value of humility and dependence in the Kingdom of God.

Mat 11:28 Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened,…
Jhn 6:37 Everyone the Father gives Me will come to Me,…

and do not hinder them!

This command reinforces the importance of removing barriers to coming to Jesus. It serves as a broader principle for the Church to facilitate, not obstruct, access to Christ. Theologically, it speaks to the grace and accessibility of the Gospel.

Mat 18:6 But if anyone causes one of these little ones…
Luk 17:2 It would be better for him to have a millstone…

For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.

Jesus uses children as a metaphor for the qualities necessary to enter the Kingdom of God: humility, trust, and dependence. This statement connects to other teachings of Jesus, such as in Matthew 18:3, where He emphasizes becoming like children to enter the Kingdom. It also reflects the prophetic vision of a kingdom where the lowly are exalted.

Luk 18:17 Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive…
Mat 18:4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this little child…

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is the one who speaks and teaches about the nature of the kingdom of God.

2. Little Children
Represent innocence, humility, and dependence, qualities that Jesus highlights as essential for entering the kingdom of God.

3. Disciples
They initially rebuke those bringing children to Jesus, reflecting a misunderstanding of His mission and the nature of His kingdom.

4. The Kingdom of God
A central theme in Jesus' teaching, representing God's sovereign rule and the realm of salvation and blessing.
Teaching Points
The Value of Childlike Faith
Jesus values the qualities of children—innocence, trust, and humility—as essential for entering the kingdom of God. Believers are encouraged to cultivate these attributes in their spiritual lives.

Jesus' Indignation
Jesus' reaction to the disciples' rebuke shows His deep concern for welcoming all, especially those who are often marginalized or undervalued. This teaches us about the inclusive nature of God's kingdom.

The Kingdom's Accessibility
The kingdom of God is accessible to all who approach with a childlike heart. This challenges believers to examine their attitudes and approach to faith.

Correcting Misunderstandings
The disciples' initial response reflects a common misunderstanding of who is worthy of God's attention. Jesus corrects this by showing that God's kingdom is open to all, regardless of status or age.

Welcoming Others
As followers of Christ, we are called to welcome and not hinder others from coming to Jesus, reflecting His love and openness in our communities.
Bible Study Questions
1. What qualities of children does Jesus highlight as essential for entering the kingdom of God, and how can we cultivate these in our own lives?

2. How does Jesus' response to the disciples' actions challenge our understanding of who is welcome in the kingdom of God?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are not hindering others from coming to Jesus in our daily interactions and church communities?

4. How does the concept of childlike faith relate to other teachings of Jesus about humility and dependence on God?

5. Reflect on a time when you may have misunderstood or underestimated someone's value in God's kingdom. How can this passage guide you in future interactions?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Matthew 18:3
Jesus emphasizes the need to become like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven, highlighting humility and trust.

Luke 18:16-17
Parallel account reinforcing the message that the kingdom of God belongs to those who are like children.

1 Peter 2:2
Encourages believers to crave pure spiritual milk like newborn babies, emphasizing growth in salvation through humility and dependence on God.
Sermons
Bring the Children to the SaviourMark 10:13-16
Bringing Children to JesusA. Watson, D. D.Mark 10:13-16
Care in Training ChildrenDr. Payson.Mark 10:13-16
Children Brought and BlessedJ.J. Given Mark 10:13-16
Children Need to be Brought to ChristC. H. Spurgeon.Mark 10:13-16
Children the Pastor's Chief CareMark 10:13-16
Children to be Brought into the Church At Earliest AgeMark 10:13-16
Children Welcomed to ChristJ. Vaughan, M. A.Mark 10:13-16
Christ's Sympathy for ChildhoodEggleston.Mark 10:13-16
Jesus and ChildrenDr. McAuslane.Mark 10:13-16
Jesus and ChildrenH. R. Haweis, M. A.Mark 10:13-16
Jesus Blessing the Little Children: a Children's SermonA.F. Muir Mark 10:13-16
Little ChildrenR. Green Mark 10:13-16
N the Salvation of All Dying Before the Age of AccountabilityR Bayne.Mark 10:13-16
Of Such is the Kingdom of GodT. Guthrie, D. D.Mark 10:13-16
Parental LoveJ. H. Norton, D. D.Mark 10:13-16
Teachers Warned Against Impeding Children's SalvationJ. Sherman.Mark 10:13-16
The Blessing of the ChildrenE. Johnson Mark 10:13-16
The Child's GospelJ. H. Norton, D. D.Mark 10:13-16
The Conversion of Little ChildrenS. S. Portwin.Mark 10:13-16
The Death of BabesW. B. Philpot, M. A.Mark 10:13-16
The Love of Christ ToAnon.Mark 10:13-16
The Salvation of InfantsJ. Jefferson.Mark 10:13-16
The Saviour's Invitation to Little ChildrenJ. H. Norton, D. D.Mark 10:13-16
The Saviour's Love for Children ReciprocatedMark 10:13-16
The Sin of Keeping Back Children from ChristH. Melvill, B. D.Mark 10:13-16
The Sin of Keeping Children from Coming to ChristC. H. Spurgeon.Mark 10:13-16
People
Bartimaeus, David, James, Jesus, John, Peter, Timaeus, Zabdi, Zebedee
Places
Jericho, Jordan River, Judea, Nazareth, Road to Jerusalem
Topics
Allow, Angry, Belongeth, Belongs, Childlike, Displeased, Forbid, Hinder, However, Indignant, Indignation, Kingdom, Moved, Permit, Reign, Seeing, Suffer
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Mark 10:14

     2009   Christ, anger of
     2015   Christ, compassion

Mark 10:13-14

     5838   disrespect
     6604   acceptance, human
     8282   intolerance

Mark 10:13-15

     8205   childlikeness

Mark 10:13-16

     2036   Christ, humility
     5652   babies
     5962   surprises
     6668   grace, and Christ
     8264   gentleness
     8471   respect, for human beings

Mark 10:13-31

     5554   status

Mark 10:14-15

     2377   kingdom of God, entry into
     8224   dependence

Library
June 21 Morning
Christ suffered for us, leaving us an example that ye should follow his steps.--I Peter 2:21. Even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister.--Whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. Jesus of Nazareth . . . went about doing good.--Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. The meekness and gentleness of Christ.--In lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Father, forgive them: for they know not what they do.--Be …
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

June 19 Evening
Gold tried in the fire.--REV. 3.18. There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, but he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you.--Now for …
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

Christ on the Road to the Cross
'And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed they were afraid.' --Mark x. 32. We learn from John's Gospel that the resurrection of Lazarus precipitated the determination of the Jewish authorities to put Christ to death; and that immediately thereafter there was held the council at which, by the advice of Caiaphas, the formal decision was come to. Thereupon our Lord withdrew Himself into the wilderness which stretches south …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Bartimaeus
Blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.'--Mark x. 46. The narrative of this miracle is contained in all the Synoptical Gospels, but the accounts differ in two respects--as to the number of men restored to sight, and as to the scene of the miracle. Matthew tells us that there were two men healed, and agrees with Mark in placing the miracle as Jesus was leaving Jericho. Mark says that there was one, and that the place was outside the gate in departing. Luke, on the other …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

An Eager Coming
'And he, casting away his garment, rose, and came to Jesus.'--Mark x. 50. Mark's vivid picture--long wail of the man, crowd silencing him, but wheeling round when Christ calls him--and the quick energy of the beggar, flinging away his cloak, springing to his feet--and blind as he was, groping his way. I. What we mean by coming to Jesus:--faith, communion, occupation of mind, heart, and will. II. How eagerly we shall come when we are conscious of need. This man wanted his eyesight: do we not want …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Love's Question
'What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?'--Mark x. 51. 'What wilt Thou have me to do!'--Acts ix. 6. Christ asks the first question of a petitioner, and the answer is a prayer for sight. Saul asks the second question of Jesus, and the answer is a command. Different as they are, we may bring them together. The one is the voice of love, desiring to be besought in order that it may bestow; the other is the voice of love, desiring to be commanded in order that it may obey. Love delights in knowing, …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Children and Childlike Men
'And they brought young children to Him, that He should touch them: and His disciples rebuked those that brought them. 14. But when Jesus saw it, He was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. 15. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.' --Mark x. 13-15. It was natural that the parents should have wanted Christ's blessing, so …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Almost a Disciple
'And when He was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to Him, and asked Him. Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life! 18. And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou Me good! there is none good but one, that is, God. 19. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother. 20. And he answered and said unto Him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth, …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Dignity and Service
'And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto Him, saying, Master, we would that Thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire. 36. And He said unto them, What would ye that I should do for you? 37. They said unto Him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on Thy right hand, and the other on Thy left hand, in Thy glory. 38. But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of! and he baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with! 39. And they said …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

November the Second Leading to Christ
"Suffer little children to come unto Me." --MARK x. 13-22. "Unto Me!" We must not keep them at any half-way house. We are so prone to be satisfied if only we bring them a little way along the road. If we get them to pray! If we get them to attend the Lord's house! If we get them to be truthful and gentle! All of which is unspeakably good. It is a blessed thing to be in "the ways of Zion"; it is a far more blessed thing to be in the palace with Zion's King and Lord. When we are dealing with little …
John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year

The Lord Our Righteousness
Jeremiah 23:6 -- "The Lord our Righteousness." Whoever is acquainted with the nature of mankind in general, or the propensity of his own heart in particular, must acknowledge, that self- righteousness is the last idol that is rooted out of the heart: being once born under a covenant of works, it is natural for us all to have recourse to a covenant of works, for our everlasting salvation. And we have contracted such devilish pride, by our fall from God, that we would, if not wholly, yet in part at …
George Whitefield—Selected Sermons of George Whitefield

Children Brought to Christ, and not to the Font
The Scripture before us is by several of the champions on the other side exhibited to the people as a rebuke to me. Their reasoning is rather ingenious than forcible: forsooth, because the disciples incurred the displeasure of Jesus Christ by keeping back the little children from coming to Him, therefore Jesus Christ is greatly displeased with me, and with all others like me, for keeping children from the font, and the performance there enacted; and specially displeased with me for exposing the Anglican …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 10: 1864

The Blind Beggar
This morning I shall address myself most particularly to the poor and blind souls here to-day. The poor blind man's faith described in this passage of Scripture, is a fit picture of the faith which I pray God you may be enabled to exert to the saving of your souls. We shall notice the origin of his faith, how his faith perceived its opportunity when Jesus passed by; we shall listen to his faith while it cries and begs; we shall look upon his faith while it leaps in joyous obedience to the divine …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 5: 1859

The Hardness of the Way.
"Children, how hard is it!"--St. Mark x. 24. I suspect there is scarcely a young man rich and thoughtful who is not ready to feel our Lord's treatment of this young man hard. He is apt to ask, "Why should it be difficult for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven?" He is ready to look upon the natural fact as an arbitrary decree, arising, shall I say? from some prejudice in the divine mind, or at least from some objection to the joys of well-being, as regarded from the creatures' side. …
George MacDonald—Unspoken Sermons

The Domestic Relation.
When we speak of home life with its relations and duties we are not digressing from the subject of gospel light. Nowhere does the light of Christianity shine so peaceful and beautiful as in the home. Nowhere is the power of its influence so felt as in the home circle. The public worship of Christians is an inspiring scene, but nothing apparently is so heavenly as the sacred family altar. A father and mother whose hearts are filled with holy love together with happy, obedient children bowing together …
Charles Ebert Orr—The Gospel Day

The Careless Sinner Awakened.
1, 2. It is too supposable a case that this Treatise may come into such hands.--3, 4. Since many, not grossly vicious, fail under that character.--5, 6. A more particular illustration of this case, with an appeal to the reader, whether it be not his own.--7 to 9. Expostulation with such.--10 to 12. More particularly--From acknowledged principles relating to the Nature of Got, his universal presence, agency, and perfection.--13. From a view of personal obligations to him.--14. From the danger Of this …
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul

The Value of Life
Whatever our present conceptions of Jesus Christ may be, we ought to approach our study of his teachings with a sense of reverence. With the slenderest human means at his disposal, within a brief span of time, he raised our understanding of God and of human life to new levels forever, and set forces in motion which revolutionized history. Of his teachings we have only fragments, but they have an inexhaustible vitality. In this course we are to examine these as our source material in order to discover, …
Walter Rauschenbusch—The Social Principles of Jesus

Tenth Lesson. What Wilt Thou?'
What wilt thou?' Or, Prayer must be Definite. And Jesus answered him, and said, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?'--Mark x. 51; Luke xviii. 41. THE blind man had been crying out aloud, and that a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.' The cry had reached the ear of the Lord; He knew what he wanted, and was ready to grant it him. But ere He does it, He asks him: What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?' He wants to hear from his own lips, not only the general petition …
Andrew Murray—With Christ in the School of Prayer

Questions and Answers--Sorrowful Cases--Testimonies from those who have Visited Canada--Stewardship.
Questions and Answers--Sorrowful Cases--Testimonies from those who have visited Canada--Stewardship. The fallowing plain answers to practical questions, are written by those well acquainted with the work:-- I. "Are these children really street Arabs? If not, where do you find so many?" In the early days of the work, before the establishment of School Boards and kindred institutions, a large proportion of the children were actually taken from the streets. Now, the rescue work begins farther back, …
Clara M. S. Lowe—God's Answers

The Journey to Jerusalem
"And they went in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them; and they were amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid."--Mark 10:32. "Jesu, was hat dich getrieben." [38]Laurentius Laurenti. transl., Sarah Findlater, 1855 Jesus! what was that which drew Thee To Jerusalem's ancient gate? Ah! the love that burned so truly, Would not suffer Thee to wait! On Thou journeyedst, thus securing Me a city more enduring! To my spirit now draw nearer, Lord, as to Jerusalem! Let each moment …
Jane Borthwick—Hymns from the Land of Luther

The Footsteps
"Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of."--Mark x. 39. Mechthild of Hellfde, 1277. tr., Emma Frances Bevan, 1899 Behold, My bride, how fair My mouth, Mine eyes; My heart is glowing fire, My hand is grace-- And see how swift My foot, and follow Me. For thou with Me shalt scorned and martyred be, Betrayed by envy, tempted in the wilds, And seized by hate, and bound by calumny; And they shall bind thine eyes lest thou should'st see, By hiding Mine eternal truth from thee. And they shall scourge …
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen and Others (Second Series)

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