-THE PEREAN MINISTRY
-Children Are Brought to Jesus
-Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16; Luke 18:15-17
-“The incident told in this section is a fitting sequel to the discourse on divorce. The little
children, the offspring of happy wedlock, and a source of constant joy and pleasure to
faithful husbands and wives, serve by their presence to correct false impressions as to
supposed inconvenience of an indissoluble marriage bond. The sight of them in the arms
of Jesus could not fail to leave a good impression with reference to married life” (McGarvey/
Pendleton, pg 543).
-“And they [assumingly the parents] brought young children [“infants” in Luke’s account]
to him [Jesus] that he should touch them. [“put his hands on them and pray” in Matthew’s
account]...” (Mark 10:13).
-“It was an ancient custom to lay hands on one in pronouncing the blessing (Gen. 48:14;
2 Kings 5:11; Matt. 9:18)” (Boles, Matthew, pg 390).
-Let’s not miss the fact that this is indicative of a kind response on the part of the people
in that area to Jesus. Had they not viewed Him favorably, they certainly wouldn’t have
brought the children to Him.
-The disciples initially rebuked those who brought the children. Evidently, they saw this as
an untimely interruption of more important things. However, Jesus utilized this as an
opportunity to teach - “...for of such is the kingdom of God” (Mark 10:14); “...Whosoever
shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein” (Mark 10:15).
-“Simple trusting faith, quick repentance, ready and implicit obedience, readiness to be
led, transparent frankness. These are all qualities of the ideal child, and they are also of
the true Christian” (Dorris, pg 231).
-Similar to His words recorded in Matthew 18:3 (see pg 67 of our study), Jesus indicated
that such child-like qualities are necessary for us to properly receive the kingdom of
God and, therefore, be motivated to take the necessary steps to enter into it.