But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
What does Matthew 19:14 mean?
It is well when we come to Christ ourselves, and bring our children. Little children may be brought to Christ as needing, and being capable of receiving blessings from him, and having an interest in his intercession.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Matthew 19:13-15 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Matthew 19:14
Jesus said, Suffer little children, ... - Mark adds, he was much displeased at what the disciples said. It was a thing highly gratifying to him, and which he earnestly sought, that children should be brought to him, and a case where it was very improper that they should interfere. Of such is the kingdom of heaven - The kingdom of heaven evidently means here the church. See the notes at Matthew 3:2 . In Mark and Luke it is said he immediately added, "Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall not enter therein.
Key words
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But Jesus said, suffer little children.
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But Jesus said, suffer little children.
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But Jesus said, suffer little children.
Context in Matthew 19
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Matthew 19 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as conflict and parables of the kingdom. Matthew presents Jesus as Davidic Messiah, new Moses, teacher of the kingdom, suffering Son of Man, and risen Lord who commissions the nations. Read this chapter with the wider themes of fulfillment, kingdom of heaven, and discipleship in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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What the Bible teaches about the value of children, raising them in the faith, their place in God's kingdom, and parental responsibility.
Bible verses about suffering and trials
Key passages on grief, endurance, lament, divine mystery, and the Christian claim that suffering is neither final nor meaningless.