Value the children they teach us child-like faith.

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 25, 2023 | Matthew 19:13-15

KEY VERSE:

Jesus said, "Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14 (NIV)

MESSAGE: Jesus never failed to seize an opportunity on everyday issues, to teach his disciples and the crowds, important lessons about the kingdom of Heaven. Because the people saw him around, they were bringing their children for him to touch and bless them. I believe this was an everyday thing when Jesus was in town; parents brought their children for him to touch them.

Even though this will be a regular feature in his day, it could only happen when the disciples permitted it, since they always had to deal with the thronging crowds around Jesus. I am sure it was a “full-time” job controlling the crowds and could be very tiring, which explains why they felt the children were a nuisance.

In many of our churches today, the children are an afterthought, not to talk of even having a children’s department which will properly cater for the needs of the children who attend church with their parents and guardians. A lot of us behave just like the disciples of Jesus did, so let us not go off judging them.

The children have always been important to Jesus, and He demonstrated that by the way he granted them unhindered access to him amidst the overflowing crowds. How much have you invested in the Children’s ministry of your church? How much do you value the caregivers and teachers of your children in your church?

In the account of Mark and Luke on this event (Mark 10:13-16 and Luke 18: 15-17), Jesus went further to explain our key verse for today. In Mark 10:15 and Luke 18:17, Jesus said unless we receive the kingdom of God with the faith of a little child, we will by no means enter it. Children believe whatever you tell them, and they are always expectant that you are who you say you are and will do everything you have promised them you will do.

FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE

We must have faith like a child, to accept the kingdom of God with all the promises that come with it. We must have a child-like faith to believe who Jesus says he is, and all that he promises the kingdom of God represents. We must accept Jesus, practice the principles, and obey the laws he presents of the Kingdom of God to enter the Kingdom.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father may your kingdom come. Help me to receive your Kingdom like a little child. Help me to live by the principles and laws of the kingdom. And help me to represent your kingdom here on earth. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSINGS SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!