Mark 10:13
And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them.
Mark 10:13 (KJV)
Context
The Gospel of Mark records several moments when Jesus welcomes children and teaches about childlike faith. In this passage, people were bringing young children to Jesus so that He could touch them, likely seeking a blessing or prayer. The Greek verb used for “brought” suggests an ongoing action, as if parents and caregivers kept coming to Jesus with their little ones. The disciples, however, rebuked those who brought them, perhaps thinking Jesus was too busy or that the children were not important enough for His attention.
Meaning
The word translated “young children” (Greek: paidia) refers to children old enough to walk or even older, though Luke’s parallel account uses a word for infants, indicating that very young ones were included. The people’s desire was that Jesus would “touch” them, a gesture often associated with blessing and healing in His ministry. The disciples’ rebuke was strong, the same kind of word used elsewhere when Jesus silenced demons or when Peter rebuked Jesus. Their action likely came from a mistaken view that children were insignificant or that Jesus had more important matters to handle.
Biblical connections
Jesus’ response, recorded in Mark 10:14, is direct: “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.” He used the moment to correct His disciples’ misconception and to teach that the kingdom of God belongs to those who receive it with childlike trust and dependence.
Application
Value of Children: This passage reminds us of the value and importance of children in God’s eyes. It encourages us to care for and nurture the faith of children, acknowledging their significance and potential in the kingdom of God.
Childlike Faith: We are called to approach God with childlike faith, trusting Him wholeheartedly, depending on His guidance, and recognizing our need for Him in every aspect of our lives.
Welcoming Others: Just as Jesus welcomed the children, we should have a welcoming attitude towards others, regardless of age or status. We should not hinder anyone from coming to Jesus but rather encourage and facilitate their encounter with Him.
Reflection
Jesus’ indignation at His disciples shows how seriously He takes the faith of the young and the humble. The kingdom of God is not reserved for the powerful or the busy, but for those who come with simple trust. This verse invites us to examine whether we, like the disciples, ever treat others as interruptions, or whether we share Jesus’ heart in welcoming all who seek Him.
