Little Children Coming To Jesus

Minister:
Date: PM
Text: Mark 10:13-16
Psalters: 133, 241, 304, 359
Sacrament of Baptism
  1. The parents' desire.
    1. ?Little children? were being brought to Jesus.
      1. This word refers to a child from an infant to a more advanced age.
      2. The parents? purpose was that Jesus ?touch them,? i.e., to bless their children.
      3. To bring our children to baptism is an indication of an on-going activity of parents who believe in the Savior.
    2. ?The disciples rebuked them,? i.e., reproved, censured severely the parents.
  2. The Lord gives valuable instruction to all of His disciples concerning children.
    1. He declares, ?Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not.?
      1. First, He was ?much displeased,? i.e., deeply pained and grieved (a strong reaction).
      2. Second, He positively said that they were to allow the little children to come to Him.
      3. Third, He strengthens this point with: ?and forbid them not.?
    2. Godly parents are to hear this Word of Jesus about the rearing of the children God gives to them.
      1. God gives children to believing parents exactly so we might bring them to Jesus.
      2. We are to be careful that we are not barriers between our children and Jesus.
    3. Further, Jesus ?took them up in His arms, put His hands upon them, and blessed them.?
  3. The reason Jesus gives for His instruction and actions is: ?for of such is the kingdom of God.?
    1. The kingdom of God is God?s rule, effecting salvation and effecting willing obedience to His rule.
    2. ?Of such? refers to the children of those who believing in Him desire His blessing on their children.
      1. Negatively, this is not every little child, and it is not even every child of believing, praying parents.
      2. Positively, to bring Hannah to baptism is our taking hold by faith of God?s promise.
    3. May God give you the grace to bring her faithfully to Jesus.