New Testament
Mark 10:14
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When Jesus saw this, he was deeply upset. "Let the little children come to me!" he said. "Don't stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to people like these.
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But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
What Mark 10:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus expresses strong feelings when he sees that people are preventing children from approaching him. He emphasizes the importance of children in the kingdom of God, indicating that their innocence and openness are qualities that adults should emulate. Jesus wants to welcome children, showing that they have a special place in his heart and in God's kingdom. This moment highlights the contrast between the adult world's often dismissive attitude towards children and the value that Jesus places on them. He teaches that the qualities of humility, trust, and simplicity found in children are essential for anyone who wishes to enter the kingdom of God. By inviting children to come to him, Jesus underscores the idea that faith should be childlike, characterized by a pure and trusting spirit.
How to apply Mark 10:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to embrace a childlike faith, characterized by trust and openness. It reminds us to value and protect the innocence of children, ensuring they have access to spiritual teachings and love. We should also reflect on how we can learn from their simplicity in our own faith journeys.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Blesses the Children (Mark 10:13–16)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 10:14 mean?
Mark 10:14 shows Jesus expressing strong feelings when children are kept from him. He emphasizes that the kingdom of God belongs to those who possess childlike qualities such as innocence and openness.
What is the significance of children in Mark 10:14?
In Mark 10:14, children symbolize humility and trust, qualities that Jesus values in those who wish to enter the kingdom of God. He highlights their importance by inviting them to come to him.
How can we apply Mark 10:14 in our lives?
We can apply Mark 10:14 by embracing a childlike faith, valuing trust and openness in our spiritual journeys. It also encourages us to protect and nurture the innocence of children.
What qualities does Jesus highlight in Mark 10:14?
In Mark 10:14, Jesus highlights qualities such as humility, trust, and simplicity, which are often found in children. He teaches that these traits are essential for anyone who wants to be part of the kingdom of God.
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