Why Did the Disciples Rebuke the Children From Coming to Jesus?

The story of Jesus and the little children is a well-known one. In Mark 10:13-16, it is written that people were bringing little children to Jesus so that he might touch them, but the disciples rebuked them.

Why did the disciples do this? Let’s explore this question.

The Context

Before we dive into the reason behind the disciples’ actions, let’s first set the context. At this point in Jesus’ ministry, he was becoming increasingly popular.

People were drawn to his teachings and miracles, and crowds would often gather around him wherever he went. In Mark 10:1, we see that Jesus had just left Galilee and entered Judea with his disciples.

The Rebuke

Now let’s examine why the disciples rebuked those who brought little children to Jesus. In verse 13 of Mark 10, we read that people were bringing their children to Jesus “so that he might touch them.”

This might seem like a strange request to us, but in Jewish culture at the time, touching was a sign of blessing or healing. So these parents wanted their children to receive a blessing from Jesus.

However, the disciples saw this as an inconvenience. They perhaps thought that Jesus had more important things to do than bless children. So they rebuked those who brought their children and tried to send them away.

Jesus’ Response

When Jesus saw what was happening, he was indignant and said to his disciples (verse 14), “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.”

Jesus’ response teaches us two important things. First, he values children just as much as adults.

He sees their worth and recognizes their place in God’s kingdom. Second, he rebukes his own disciples for their wrong attitude. He reminds them that the kingdom of God belongs to those who have childlike faith (verse 15).

The Significance

So why is this story significant? It shows us that Jesus’ message and ministry were for everyone, regardless of age or social status. It also teaches us about the importance of having a childlike faith – one that is humble, trusting, and eager to learn.

As Christians, we can learn from this story by valuing children and treating them with kindness and respect. We can also strive to cultivate a childlike faith in ourselves, one that trusts in God’s goodness and seeks to know him more deeply.

  • Lesson 1: Jesus’ message and ministry were for everyone
  • Lesson 2: Having a childlike faith is important
  • Lesson 3: We should value children and treat them with kindness and respect

In Conclusion

In Mark 10:13-16, we see the disciples rebuking those who brought little children to Jesus. However, Jesus corrects his disciples and teaches us about the importance of having a childlike faith.

This story reminds us that Jesus’ message is for everyone and that we should value children just as much as adults. May we strive to have a humble and trusting faith like that of a child.