The Bible Text (Luke 18:15-17)

And they were bringing even their babies to Him so that He might touch them, but when the disciples saw it, they began rebuking them. But Jesus called for them, saying, “Permit the children to come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. “Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it at all” (Luke 18:15-17, NASB).

An Introduction (Luke 18:15-17)

These verses relate to the former topic (Luke 18:9-14). We can see the pride built up in the disciples. The lack of genuine interest for the babies reveals how a ‘better than another attitude’ had infected them. Jesus saw these children not as ones which needlessly filled up His schedule but as a place where people brought their most precious concerns to the Lord. These parents were to be applauded.

We should note that the society in their time did not spoil children. They often had no rights whatsoever. Jesus believed they had rights to know God but at the same time was to obey their parents.

The Greek word ‘brephos’ for babies (15) can either mean an unborn foetus (still in the womb) or recently born child, an infant or baby. Jesus used the word 'paidion' which means little children as well as infants.

The Bible Study Questions (Luke 18:15-17)

• Who were bringing babies? Where did they take them (Luke 18:15)?
• Why did they do this (Luke 18:15)? What do you think they hoped to gain by doing this?

• Who rebuked these people for bringing their children to Jesus (Luke 18:15)? Why do you think they did this?

• How did Jesus respond to this situation (Luke 18:16)?

• What did Jesus mean by Luke 18:17, “Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it at all.”

“The kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Luke 18:16).

The Application Questions (Luke 18:15-17)

• Have you ever felt that the Lord might not welcome you? How can this passage be of help to you?

• Do you ever get resentful when others are favored by the Lord and you aren’t? What should be our attitude?

• Do you as a parent care for God's blessing on your children? How do you develop that concern and passion in them?

• Do you treat children as 'in the way' or of a lower status?

A Summary (Luke 18:15-17)

Jesus used the word for child (paidion) which includes babies, toddlers and even older children. We can only conclude that Jesus purposely broadened His welcome to even include older children. There were no doubt some children there watching Him, and when they heard this, probably ran up to Jesus to be blessed. Oh, that more people including children would have a greater love and affection for Jesus. They will be more blessed!

We should desire that more people including children receive His blessing and respond by seeking Him more diligently ourselves!