New Testament
Luke 18:16
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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.
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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.
What Luke 18:16 means
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.
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
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Blesses the Children (Luke 18:15–17)
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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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Keep studying Luke 18:16
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Key themes
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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 18:16 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.
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