New Testament
Luke 18:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
People were bringing their babies to Jesus so he could touch them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked the people.
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And they brought unto him also infants, that he would touch them: but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them.
What Luke 18:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, people are bringing their infants to Jesus, hoping that he would bless them with a touch. This act reflects the deep desire of parents to seek spiritual blessings for their children. However, the disciples, perhaps thinking they were protecting Jesus from being overwhelmed or distracted, scold the parents for bringing the children. This reaction shows a misunderstanding of Jesus' mission and his openness to all, including the vulnerable and innocent. Jesus, known for his compassion, later rebukes the disciples for their actions, emphasizing that the kingdom of God belongs to those who are like children. This moment highlights the importance of welcoming and valuing every individual, regardless of age or status, in the community of faith.
How to apply Luke 18:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to embrace and support the next generation in their spiritual journeys. We should create an environment where children feel welcomed and valued in our communities, recognizing their importance in the faith and the blessings they bring to our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Blesses the Children (Luke 18:15–17)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 18:15 mean?
Luke 18:15 describes parents bringing their infants to Jesus for a blessing. The disciples rebuke the parents, misunderstanding Jesus' openness to all, especially the vulnerable.
What is the significance of children in Luke 18:15?
In this verse, children symbolize innocence and the qualities of humility and trust that are valued in the kingdom of God. Jesus later emphasizes that the kingdom belongs to those who are like children.
Why did the disciples rebuke the parents in Luke 18:15?
The disciples likely rebuked the parents to protect Jesus from being overwhelmed or distracted. Their reaction reflects a misunderstanding of Jesus' mission to embrace everyone, including children.
What lesson can we learn from Luke 18:15?
Luke 18:15 teaches the importance of welcoming and valuing children in our communities. It encourages us to support the next generation in their spiritual journeys.
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