Jesus responds with grace toward children, while also illustrating the trusting heart required of any who would follow Him in faith.
In Mark 10:13-16Mark 10:13-16 commentary, commentary we see that they were bringing children to Him so that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked them (v. 13). Jesus was on His way through the region of Judea, likely east of the Jordan River during this moment. The disciples apparently believed that the children were an unnecessary interruption, trying to shield Jesus from what they assumed was a trivial matter. Yet this moment sets the stage for a significant teaching on how Jesus values and welcomes those whom society might overlook. His willingness to spend time with even the youngest underscores His compassionate heart and His mission to care for all people without distinction.
Continuing, the account tells us that when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these (v. 14). Jesus’s indignation demonstrates that He was upset that His own followers would consider these children to be a distraction. Instead, He commands them to let the children approach, explaining that the same quality of heart that welcomes God with simple hope and trust belongs in the kingdom of God. These words tie into the wider teaching of Scripture that faith is not confined to the sophisticated but is more about a receptive spirit toward God’s grace (see also the example of childlike faith in Matthew 18:3Matthew 18:3 commentary). Jesus, who began His public ministry around AD 27, was always looking to remove barriers that hindered people from coming to Him, regardless of their status in society.
Jesus then adds Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all (v. 15). This statement stands as a timeless principle: the attitude of openness, humility, and trust displayed by children is precisely how one must approach the things of God. Adult believers may wrestle with doubts, pride, and self-sufficiency, but Jesus points out that a sincere, childlike dependence on Him is the true requirement for entering into a relationship with God. Throughout the New Testament, from the Gospels to the letters, this theme of humble faith resonates, reminding us that our achievements or intellectual grasp do not grant us salvation—only genuine trust in God’s grace does.
Mark 10:13-16Mark 10:13-16 commentary concludes by describing that He took them in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them (v. 16). This tender image reminds us that Jesus not only taught about the importance of children but also demonstrated it in personal interaction. By physically embracing the children, He gave a living picture of His accepting love for all who come to Him. The children experienced a blessing from the One whose ministry would culminate in His sacrificial death and resurrection for the redemption of the whole world. In doing so, He validated their worth in the eyes of God and underscored that each person, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, is precious to the Lord.
Set to dark mode
Mark 10:13-16 meaning
In Mark 10:13-16Mark 10:13-16 commentary, commentary we see that they were bringing children to Him so that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked them (v. 13). Jesus was on His way through the region of Judea, likely east of the Jordan River during this moment. The disciples apparently believed that the children were an unnecessary interruption, trying to shield Jesus from what they assumed was a trivial matter. Yet this moment sets the stage for a significant teaching on how Jesus values and welcomes those whom society might overlook. His willingness to spend time with even the youngest underscores His compassionate heart and His mission to care for all people without distinction.
Continuing, the account tells us that when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these (v. 14). Jesus’s indignation demonstrates that He was upset that His own followers would consider these children to be a distraction. Instead, He commands them to let the children approach, explaining that the same quality of heart that welcomes God with simple hope and trust belongs in the kingdom of God. These words tie into the wider teaching of Scripture that faith is not confined to the sophisticated but is more about a receptive spirit toward God’s grace (see also the example of childlike faith in Matthew 18:3Matthew 18:3 commentary). Jesus, who began His public ministry around AD 27, was always looking to remove barriers that hindered people from coming to Him, regardless of their status in society.
Jesus then adds Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all (v. 15). This statement stands as a timeless principle: the attitude of openness, humility, and trust displayed by children is precisely how one must approach the things of God. Adult believers may wrestle with doubts, pride, and self-sufficiency, but Jesus points out that a sincere, childlike dependence on Him is the true requirement for entering into a relationship with God. Throughout the New Testament, from the Gospels to the letters, this theme of humble faith resonates, reminding us that our achievements or intellectual grasp do not grant us salvation—only genuine trust in God’s grace does.
Mark 10:13-16Mark 10:13-16 commentary concludes by describing that He took them in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them (v. 16). This tender image reminds us that Jesus not only taught about the importance of children but also demonstrated it in personal interaction. By physically embracing the children, He gave a living picture of His accepting love for all who come to Him. The children experienced a blessing from the One whose ministry would culminate in His sacrificial death and resurrection for the redemption of the whole world. In doing so, He validated their worth in the eyes of God and underscored that each person, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, is precious to the Lord.