Amen, I say to you: Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a child shall not enter into it.
αμην λεγω υμιν ος εαν μη δεξηται την βασιλειαν του θεου ως παιδιον ου μη εισελθη εις αυτην
12 Church Fathers comment on this verse · 15 commentaries
After what He had said, our Lord teaches us a lesson of humility by His own example; He does not turn away the little children who are brought to Him, but graciously receives them.
The wise men of the Gentiles therefore who seek for wisdom in a mystery, which is the kingdom of God, and will not receive this without the evidence of logical proof, are rightly shut out from this kingdom.
Since Christ proclaimed, “Let little children come unto Me, and do not hinder them, for of such is the kingdom of God,” let us explore the nature of those who seek eternal life and are captivated by the kingdom of heaven. Some might question, “What can we learn from infants? Are they not lacking in strength and wisdom? How can we believe such a thing?” Yet, Christ desires that we use our understanding to grasp fully what is essential for our salvation.
Scripture reminds us that wisdom declares, “to the simple I give cunning, and to the youth the beginnings of wisdom and understanding.” In Proverbs, she calls out, saying, “To you, O men, I appeal, and to the sons of men I say, Understand, O simple ones, discern, and you fools, be of an understanding heart.” This implies that a fool lacks discernment and is free of malice—not in shameful matters, which is unfathomable, but in matters worthy of honor.
The Savior provides insight on how one can embody both simplicity and cunning, instructing us to “be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” Likewise, the Apostle Paul advises, “My brethren, do not be children in your thinking, but in evil be infants, and in your thinking be mature.” We must understand what it means to embody innocence in wickedness while maturing in our understanding. An infant, who knows little or nothing, is rightly excused from the accusations of corruption and ungodliness. Thus, it is our responsibility to strive to be like them, shedding all habits of wickedness, so that we may also be regarded as individuals unacquainted with deceit, embodying innocence and simplicity, demonstrating meekness and precious humility, and voluntarily refraining from anger and malice. We assert that these attributes characterize those who remain as infants.
If we possess such innocence and simplicity, we should also aspire to full maturity in our minds, having a firm grasp of the true knowledge of God, the Creator of the universe, and recognizing no false gods alongside Him. We must avoid the ruinous temptation of denying Him through the practices of the Gentiles. Our thoughts must be steadfastly anchored in the living and true God, while we also evade the traps and stumbling blocks set by the devil; for it is they who distort the true doctrine of God, misrepresenting the truth, exalting themselves against God, and spreading falsehoods that mislead the common people, igniting conflict against the glory of the Only Begotten Son of God, insisting He is merely a creature, when in truth, He is the one who brought all into existence. Having brought dreadful condemnation upon themselves, they fearlessly speak against the Holy Spirit. Those who describe such individuals as the gates of hell are not mistaken. The wise Paul further cautions us to turn away from such individuals, stating, "For if any man preach any other thing unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed."
Thus, the foremost perfection of the mind is to be rooted in faith, with our understanding unharmed in that faith; the second, closely related to this first perfection and its constant companion, is the clear knowledge of how to live in a manner pleasing to God, as revealed to us by the gospel, which guides us to a life that is perfect and blameless. Those who walk this path lead lives marked by simplicity and innocence, yet they understand the beliefs they should hold and the actions they should take. They enter through the narrow gate, diligently engaging in the works that true piety demands before God, as well as those necessary for a life of glory. By so doing, they advance into the abundance of God and rejoice in His blessings, winning for themselves the kingdom of heaven through Christ, to whom and with whom be glory and dominion to God the Father, with the Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.
What qualities in infants warrant our earnest emulation? Is it not their simplicity and lack of malicious intent? Therefore, is it not at all surprising that He might express something along those lines? Would He not prefer us to be rational beings? For Christ desires for us not to lack reasoning but to possess a full understanding of what is vital and essential for our salvation. Indeed, Wisdom acknowledges that He imparts shrewdness to the wicked, and to the youth grants insight and discernment (Proverbs 1:4).
How, then, can one truly embody both malice and cunning simultaneously? The Saviour provides clarity on this matter, instructing us in another context: "Be wise as serpents and innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16). The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment, saying: "Brethren, do not be children in your thinking; rather, be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature" (1 Corinthians 14:20). Thus, it is essential to consider what it means to be innocent like infants in matters of wickedness and how one matures through sound reasoning.
An infant, possessing minimal to no knowledge, cannot justly be held accountable for wrongdoing. Therefore, it is appropriate for us to endeavor to emulate their innocence, renouncing all evil conduct, displaying an ignorance of deceit, and adopting a life of simplicity and kindness. In doing so, we cultivate the virtues of meekness and humility, readily turning away from anger and sadness. It is in this manner that we recognize the qualities found in those who remain in their infantile state.
To whom are they brought to be touched, but to the Saviour? And as being the Saviour they are presented to Him to be saved, who came to save that which was lost. But with regard to these innocents, when were they lost? The Apostle says, By one man sin entered into the world. (Rom. 5:12.) Let then the little children come as the sick to a physician, the lost to their Redeemer.
We shall receive the kingdom of God as a child if we are disposed towards our Lord’s teaching as a child under instruction, never contradicting nor disputing with his masters, but trustfully and teachably imbibing learning.
It may be thought strange by some that the disciples wished to prevent the little children from coming to our Lord, as it is said, when they saw it, they rebuked them. But we must understand in this either a mystery, or the effect of their love to Him. For they did it not from envy or harsh feeling towards the children, but they manifested a holy zeal in their Lord’s service, that he might not be pressed by the crowds. Our own interest must be given up where an injury is threatened to God. But we may understand the mystery to be, that they desired the Jewish people to be first saved, of whom they were according to the flesh.
Lastly, our Saviour expressed this when He said, Verily I say unto you, Whosoever will not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, &c. What child were Christ’s Apostles to imitate but Him of whom Esaias speaks, Unto us a Child is given? (Isai. 9:6.) Who when He was reviled, reviled not again. (1 Pet. 2.) So that there is in childhood a certain venerable antiquity, and in old age a childlike innocence.
In the closing section of his twenty-eighth chapter, Mark provides a perspective, and there one should seek understanding.
Hence our Lord pointedly says, of such, not “of these,” to shew that to character, not to age, is the kingdom given, and to such as have a childlike innocence and simplicity is the promise of the reward.
How is one to receive it 'like a child'? This is how: with simplicity, openness of heart, and without premeditation. Analytical reasoning has no place in the domain of faith. Such reasoning can only occur on the periphery of belief. Just as a dissecting surgeon may examine every detail of the body but fail to perceive the essence of life, so too does the rational thinker—regardless of their reasoning—miss the depth of faith's power. It is faith itself that provides insights, presenting a complete picture that fulfills all the needs of our being, prompting our mind, conscience, and heart to embrace this faith. Once accepted, this faith becomes something they do not wish to abandon. This scenario is akin to a person savoring nourishing and delightful food.
After experiencing its goodness, they recognize its worth and integrate it into their diet. Chemistry offers no assistance in reinforcing this belief, neither prior nor subsequently. Their conviction is founded on personal experience, for they know the truth of their faith firsthand. Faith cultivates within them an unwavering certainty that it is indeed faith. Thus, what constitutes reasonable faith? The essence of reasonable faith is the direct knowledge of its existence. Rational thought only complicates matters, diminishing the fervor of faith and weakening its vitality, and most crucially, it tarnishes and repels the grace of God—an issue of utmost significance within Christianity.
Many mothers, convinced that God answers the prayers of His faithful servants on behalf of others, brought their children to Jesus Christ so He could bless them. Given the large crowd, not everyone was optimistic about their hopes being realized. However, their deep respect for Christ led them to believe that even a single touch from Him upon their children would suffice. The disciples, perhaps believing that this was a trivial concern not worthy of the Lord's attention, tried to prevent the mothers from approaching Jesus with their children. This misguided attitude upset the Lord significantly, prompting His anger towards them.
When He eventually commanded that the children be allowed to come to Him, He did more than just touch them or lay His hands upon them; He also embraced them, bestowing His blessings upon them, thereby demonstrating His profound affection for their pure and innocent nature. He reiterated to the disciples that not only are these children some of the most deserving members of God's kingdom, but also that adults will gain entry into this kingdom only if they receive it with a childlike heart.
Jesus listened to the pleas of the mothers and the objections of the disciples, telling them, "Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 19:14). The Kingdom of Heaven is reserved for those who are innocent like children. Previously, He had shared this truth with the apostles when they inquired about who the greatest was in the kingdom of heaven. He reinforced that anyone who does not accept the Kingdom of God as a child will not enter it (Mark 10:15) (refer to Mark 9:36-37). Do not impede them from approaching Me. Mothers and fathers, inscribe these words in your hearts and remember them as you attend to your daily tasks.
Ensure that you do not obstruct your children’s path to Christ and remain vigilant, safeguarding them from being misled. It is crucial to acknowledge that you bear the responsibility for the well-being of this flock of the Lord. However, it is not enough simply to refrain from hindrance; you carry the significant duty of guiding your children toward Christ.
Do not let the presence of a teacher of the law, assigned to instruct the children, dissuade you. He imparts the Law of God, while you must instill this Law within their hearts, ensuring it is practiced. Teach them that true happiness in this life is found only through selfless and forgiving love for one another, and exemplify through your life that a life in Christ leads to true joy within the Kingdom of God and opens the gates to the Kingdom of Heaven. If you find yourself unable to lead your children to Christ due to your lack of faith or apathy toward the works of belief, then seek another path. Do not take upon your soul the weight of that responsibility, however slight, for it may awaken within you the realization that it would be preferable for a millstone to be tied around your neck and for you to be cast into the sea! (refer to Matthew 18:1-6).
In that moment, the Savior welcomed the children and placed His holy hands upon them, teaching His disciples and the crowd that “whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a child,” meaning with pure innocence and selflessness, “shall not enter therein.” Imitating the Savior, the Church He established began to accept children into its community through baptism, not postponing this sacrament until they were older.
The narrative provided by Luke regarding the blessing of the children aligns with the accounts given by both Mark and Matthew, though Matthew's rendition is slightly more concise. For further details, see Matthew 19:13-15 and Mark 10:13-16.
Passages read together with this verse.
Greek text, 18 words with lemma, transliteration and Strong’s number. Tap to expand.
THEOSIS