New Testament

Luke 18:16

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of children and their place in the kingdom of God.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

But Jesus called the children over and said, "Let the little children come to me. Don't stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to people like these.

KJVKing James Version

But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of children and their place in the kingdom of God. He invites the little children to come to Him, indicating that they are valued and welcomed in His presence. The phrase 'for of such is the kingdom of God' suggests that the qualities found in children—such as innocence, trust, and humility—are essential for anyone who wishes to enter God's kingdom. Jesus is teaching that the kingdom is not just for the powerful or the wise, but for those who approach God with a childlike faith. This moment also serves as a reminder to adults not to hinder or dismiss the spiritual potential of children, as they have much to teach us about faith and dependence on God. Explore related inclusivity.

How to apply Luke 18:16 to your life

We should encourage and nurture the faith of children, recognizing their importance in the community of believers. Adults can learn from children's trust and openness to God. Creating an environment where children feel welcomed and valued in spiritual matters is essential for their growth and understanding of faith.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 18:16 teach about children in faith?

Luke 18:16 teaches that children hold a special place in the kingdom of God. Jesus invites them to come to Him, highlighting their innocence and trust as qualities essential for faith. This verse encourages adults to recognize the spiritual potential of children and to foster an environment where they can grow in their relationship with God.

Why did Jesus say not to hinder children in Luke 18:16?

Jesus said not to hinder children because He wanted to emphasize their importance in the kingdom of God. By welcoming children, He illustrates that the qualities they possess—such as humility, trust, and openness—are vital for anyone seeking to enter God's kingdom. This serves as a reminder for adults to support and nurture the faith of children rather than dismissing it.

How can adults learn from children according to Luke 18:16?

Adults can learn from children by observing their childlike faith, which is characterized by trust, openness, and a lack of pretense. Luke 18:16 encourages adults to adopt these qualities in their own faith journey, reminding them that approaching God with humility and simplicity is essential for spiritual growth.

What is the significance of 'the kingdom of God belongs to people like these'?

The phrase 'the kingdom of God belongs to people like these' signifies that the qualities found in children—innocence, trust, and humility—are what God values in His followers. It challenges societal norms that prioritize power and wisdom, reinforcing that anyone who approaches God with a sincere and humble heart can enter His kingdom.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

The Book of Luke

Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold

In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.

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