In the Gospel accounts, the event of Jesus blessing the little children is a poignant moment that underscores His love and care for the innocent and humble. This event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 19:13-15, Mark 10:13-16, and Luke 18:15-17. It takes place during Jesus' ministry in Peraea, a region beyond the Jordan River, as He journeys toward Jerusalem.

Context and Setting

As Jesus traveled through Peraea, large crowds followed Him, drawn by His teachings and miracles. Amidst this bustling scene, parents brought their children to Jesus, seeking His blessing. This act was a common practice in Jewish culture, where a rabbi's blessing was highly valued.

The Disciples' Reaction

The disciples, perhaps concerned with maintaining order or believing that Jesus should not be troubled with children, rebuked those bringing the little ones. Their reaction reflects a cultural view that children were of lesser importance in religious matters. However, this perspective was about to be challenged by Jesus Himself.

Jesus' Response

Jesus' response to His disciples is both corrective and instructive. He says, "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). In Mark's account, it is noted that Jesus was indignant with His disciples, emphasizing the importance He placed on welcoming children.

Significance of the Event

1. Affirmation of Innocence and Humility: Jesus' blessing of the children highlights the virtues of innocence and humility. He uses this moment to teach that the kingdom of God belongs to those who possess childlike qualities—trust, openness, and dependence on God.

2. Inclusivity of the Kingdom: By welcoming the children, Jesus demonstrates that the kingdom of God is inclusive, extending grace and love to all, regardless of social status or age. This act serves as a reminder that no one is too insignificant to receive God's attention and blessing.

3. Model for Believers: Jesus' actions provide a model for how believers should treat others, especially the vulnerable and marginalized. His embrace of the children is a call to nurture and protect the innocent, reflecting God's heart for the least among us.

4. Spiritual Lesson: Jesus' statement, "Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it" (Luke 18:17), serves as a profound spiritual lesson. It challenges believers to approach God with the same simplicity and faith as a child, free from pride and self-reliance.

Conclusion

The blessing of the little children in Peraea is a testament to Jesus' compassion and the radical nature of His message. It reveals the heart of God towards the humble and teaches a vital lesson about the nature of true discipleship. In welcoming the children, Jesus not only affirms their value but also sets a standard for how His followers are to engage with the world—with love, humility, and an open heart.Matthew 19:13-15
Then were there brought to him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.
Nave's Topical Index

Mark 10:13-16
And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them.
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Luke 18:15-17
And they brought to him also infants, that he would touch them: but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them.
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The Gospel According to St. Mark
... to Dalmanutha, Pharisees seek a sign, Jesus takes ship to ... Journey to Jerusalem through
Peraea: x."Christ forbids divorce, blesses children, the rich ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter iv the gospel according.htm

The Gospel According to St. John
... Christ's intercession (xvii ... [4] See Edersheim, Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah ...
food (vi.11); gives sight (ix.7); is Lord over death (xi.44); blesses the work ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter vi the gospel according.htm

The Gospel According to St. Matthew
... Jesus returns to Nazareth (xiii.53-58). ... The ministry in Peraea; xix. i-xx.34."Christ
forbids divorce, He blesses children, the rich young man, the ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter iii the gospel according.htm

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