Coming to Jesus as Children – A Humble Lesson from Matthew

Have you ever noticed how easily a child trusts? There’s something simple, honest, and deeply real about childlike faith. In a world filled with pride and distractions, Jesus points us back to something we often overlook—humility. In this lesson from Matthew 19:13-15, we’ll look at what it truly means to come to Jesus as children and why that matters for our daily lives.

“Let the little children come to Me…” says Jesus. (Matthew 19:14)

This lesson from Matthew reminds us that Christ welcomes everyone—especially those the world may overlook. That includes children, and it includes us.

While we see children as precious, the disciples in this moment saw them as a distraction. However, Jesus had a very different perspective.

Let’s take a closer look at this teaching and what it means for us today.

The Little Children and Jesus

Then some children were brought to Him so that He might lay His hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them. (Matthew 19:13)

But Jesus said, “Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (19:14)

After laying His hands on them, He departed from there. (19:15)

Right away, we see a contrast. On one hand, the disciples try to push the children away. On the other hand, Jesus welcomes them with open arms. This moment teaches us something important about the heart of Christ.

Remember the Song?

“Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world…“

Many of us grew up singing that song. Yet, have we stopped to think about what it really means? Jesus doesn’t just tolerate children—He values them. In fact, He uses them as an example for all of us.

Children in Biblical Times

During the time of Jesus, children were often overlooked and undervalued. In this culture, they were seen as unimportant or even burdensome. As a result, the disciples may have thought they were protecting Jesus’ time.

However, Jesus saw what others missed. He recognized their worth and welcomed them. This reminds us that God’s values are often very different from the world’s.

All Are Loved by Christ

Jesus made it clear that the kingdom of heaven belongs to those who are like children. In other words, it’s not about status, knowledge, or power. Instead, it’s about having a humble heart.

Children are naturally trusting, dependent, and open. These are the very qualities that draw us closer to Christ.

If you’re interested in how we can live out these truths daily, check out this helpful post on applying biblical principles in daily life.

Unless You Become Like a Child Meaning

So, what does coming to Jesus as children really mean?

First, it means letting go of pride. Pride tells us we have all the answers. It keeps us from fully trusting God. However, humility opens the door to real faith.

Second, it means trusting Jesus completely. Just as a child depends on a parent, we are called to depend on Christ for guidance, forgiveness, and eternal life.

Finally, it means having a sincere and open heart. Children don’t over-complicate things. Likewise, our relationship with Jesus doesn’t need to be complicated. It simply needs to be real.

How Do We Approach Jesus Today?

Often, we come to God when life feels overwhelming. In those moments, we become more like children—aware of our need and ready to receive help. Yet, Jesus invites us to live this way every day–not just in difficult times. He calls us to a life of ongoing trust and humility.

Additionally, Jesus gives strong warnings about how we treat children. You can learn more in this article about causing children to stumble.

Are We Letting Pride Get in the Way?

One of the biggest barriers to faith is pride. Sometimes, we rely too much on our own understanding or achievements. As a result, we may feel we don’t need God.

However, Scripture reminds us that pride can lead us away from life. In contrast, humility leads us toward Christ.

Don’t let knowledge, religion, or personal success stand in the way of your relationship with Jesus. Instead, choose to come to Him with a humble heart.

If you’re ready to take that step, you can learn more about accepting Jesus Christ and experiencing His love.

A Simple but Powerful Truth

Jesus didn’t just welcome children—He pointed to them as an example. That’s a powerful reminder for all of us. When we choose humility over pride, and trust over control, we begin to understand what it truly means to follow Christ.

Love in Christ
– Bob

If you would like to discover how to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to go here for more information.

Want to learn more about the Bible? Keep checking in at Making Christ Known.

*Verses from New American Standard Bible (NASB).