The life of Jesus · Mark 10
Jesus Blesses the Children
People bring little children to Jesus so that he may touch them. But the disciples rebuke those who bring them. When Jesus sees this, he is indignant. He says: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Then he adds solemnly: “Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child shall not enter it.” Then he takes the children in his arms and blesses them, laying his hands on them. Matthew and Luke also record this scene. Those whom the disciples were turning away have every right to be with Jesus, and for the grown-ups they are even a model for entering the kingdom.
What happens
- Little children are brought to Jesus, but the disciples turn them away Mark 10:13
- Jesus, indignant: “Let the little children come to me” Mark 10:14
- Receiving the kingdom of God like a little child Mark 10:15
- Jesus takes them in his arms and blesses them Mark 10:16
Who is in this story
The lesson
The kingdom of God is not earned by merit or maturity: it is received with the trust and humility of a little child. Jesus welcomes those whom others push aside, and he calls us never to close the door on the smallest among us.
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. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
Quick quiz on this story
What does Jesus feel when he sees the disciples’ attitude?
When he saw the disciples rebuking those who brought the children, Jesus “was much displeased” and told them to let the little children come. Mark 10:13–14
What does Jesus do as he blesses the children?
Jesus “took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.” Mark 10:16
According to Jesus, who does the kingdom of God belong to?
Jesus declares: “of such is the kingdom of God,” that is, it belongs to those who are like little children. Mark 10:14
There are many more questions like these in Bible Academy, each with its explanation and verse. Start your free trial.