Bible Study: Jesus’ Teachings On Children

What specific teachings did Jesus give about children?

Jesus gave several important teachings about children that reveal their special place in God’s kingdom. Jesus taught that we must become like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven. As we read in Matthew 18:3, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990)

This teaching highlights the qualities of humility, trust, and openness that children embody and that we as adults must recapture. Jesus is calling us to set aside our pride and self-reliance, and instead approach God with the simple faith and dependence of a child. By embracing these childlike qualities, we can better understand the essence of faith and the importance of community in our spiritual journeys. In this light, we can also reflect on how to explain salvation simply, emphasizing that it is a gift of grace rather than a result of our own efforts. Ultimately, this humility allows us to connect with others and share the transformative message of love and redemption.

Jesus also taught that children have a privileged place in God’s kingdom. In Mark 10:14-15, when the disciples tried to keep children away, Jesus rebuked them, saying “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990) This shows that far from being unimportant, children are at the very heart of God’s kingdom.

Jesus taught that welcoming and caring for children is equivalent to welcoming Him. As we read in Mark 9:37, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990) In this way, Jesus elevates service to children as one of the highest forms of discipleship.

Jesus also warned against causing children to stumble or leading them into sin. In Matthew 18:6, He says “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” This stern warning shows how seriously Jesus takes the spiritual well-being of children.

Finally, Jesus taught that we should honor and respect children, not look down on them. In Matthew 18:10, He says “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.” This reminds us of the inherent dignity and worth of every child in God’s eyes.

In all these teachings, we see Jesus’ great love for children and His desire for us to treasure them as He does. He calls us to protect their innocence, nurture their faith, and learn from their example of trust and humility. May we take these teachings to heart and treat the children in our lives with the love and respect that Jesus modeled.

How did Jesus interact with children in the Gospels?

Jesus’ interactions with children in the Gospels reveal His deep love and tenderness toward them. We see Him consistently welcoming children, blessing them, and using them as examples of faith for His disciples to emulate. Jesus understood the importance of building faith with your children from a young age, and His actions serve as a model for parents and caregivers today. By welcoming, blessing, and using children as examples of faith, Jesus showed that they are valued and have an important role to play within the kingdom of God. As we seek to follow His example, let us also prioritize nurturing the faith of the children in our lives, encouraging them to grow in their relationship with God. Incorporating Jesus’ teachings into the lives of children can lay a strong foundation for their spiritual journey. Teaching kids about Jesus not only fosters their understanding of faith but also helps them navigate life’s challenges with hope and compassion. By engaging them in meaningful conversations and activities, we can inspire a lifelong relationship with God that extends beyond childhood.

One of the most touching scenes is recorded in Mark 10:13-16, where people were bringing little children to Jesus for Him to bless them. When the disciples tried to turn them away, Jesus became indignant and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990) Then He took the children in His arms, placed His hands on them and blessed them. This beautiful image shows Jesus’ warmth and affection for children, as well as His desire to include them in His ministry.

We see a similar interaction in Matthew 19:13-15, where Jesus again welcomes children brought to Him for blessing, despite the disciples’ attempts to send them away. Jesus rebukes the disciples, saying “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990) This shows Jesus’ prioritization of children and His view that they have a special place in God’s kingdom.

In another instance, recorded in Mark 9:36-37, Jesus uses a child as an object lesson for His disciples. He takes a little child and has the child stand among them. Taking the child in His arms, He says to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990) Here we see Jesus physically embracing a child and using this gesture to teach about humility and service.

The Gospels also record Jesus healing children and responding to the faith of parents on behalf of their children. For example, in Mark 5:21-43, Jesus heals the 12-year-old daughter of Jairus, a synagogue leader. In Matthew 15:21-28, He heals the demon-possessed daughter of a Canaanite woman who persists in faith. And in John 4:46-54, He heals the son of a royal official. In each case, we see Jesus’ compassion for suffering children and their families.

Perhaps most poignantly, Luke 18:15-17 tells us that people were even bringing babies to Jesus for Him to touch and bless them. This shows that Jesus welcomed children of all ages, from infants to older children. His disciples tried to stop this, but Jesus called the children to Him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990)

In all these interactions, we see Jesus treating children with gentleness, respect, and love. He never dismisses them as unimportant, but rather elevates their status and holds them up as examples. He touches them, blesses them, heals them, and welcomes them into His presence. May we follow His example in how we treat the children in our lives and in our communities.

What responsibilities do parents have toward their children according to Scripture?

Scripture outlines several key responsibilities that parents have toward their children, emphasizing the vital role of parents in nurturing both the physical and spiritual well-being of their offspring.

Parents are called to love their children unconditionally, reflecting God’s love for us. This love should be patient, kind, and selfless, as described in 1 Corinthians 13. It forms the foundation for all other parental responsibilities.

Parents are also tasked with providing for their children’s physical needs. As 1 Timothy 5:8 states, “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” (Dedon & Trostyanskiy, 2016) This includes food, shelter, clothing, and protection from harm.

Crucially, Scripture emphasizes the parents’ role in spiritual formation. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 instructs: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Parents are to be the primary teachers of faith, integrating spiritual instruction into daily life.

Discipline is another key parental responsibility. Proverbs 13:24 says, “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.” This doesn’t advocate harsh punishment, but rather loving correction that guides children toward righteousness. As Ephesians 6:4 instructs, “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” (Sandford & Sandford, 2009) Effective discipline requires patience and understanding, as parents must strive to communicate their expectations clearly and consistently. By employing parenting techniques from the Bible, caregivers can foster an environment where children feel secure and supported in their growth. Ultimately, this approach nurtures a strong parent-child relationship that emphasizes love, respect, and moral integrity.

Parents are also called to be good examples. Children learn by observing, so parents must model the faith and values they wish to instill. As 2 Timothy 1:5 illustrates, faith can be passed down through generations: “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” (Dedon & Trostyanskiy, 2016)

Parents have a responsibility to pray for their children. Job regularly offered sacrifices for his children (Job 1:5), and we see numerous examples in Scripture of parents interceding for their children.

Lastly, parents are called to prepare their children for adulthood and independence. This involves teaching life skills, fostering responsibility, and gradually allowing more autonomy. Proverbs 22:6 advises, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

In fulfilling these responsibilities, parents participate in God’s work of shaping the next generation. It’s a sacred trust, requiring dedication, sacrifice, and reliance on God’s grace. As Pope Francis has said, “In the family we learn closeness, care and respect for others. We break out of our fatal self-absorption and come to realize that we are living with and alongside others who are worthy of our concern, our kindness and our affection.” May all parents embrace this holy calling with joy and commitment.

How does the Bible view childlessness and infertility?

The Bible presents a nuanced view of childlessness and infertility, acknowledging both the pain it can cause and the possibility of finding meaning and purpose without biological children.

In ancient Israelite culture, children were seen as a blessing from God and a sign of His favor. Psalm 127:3-5 declares, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.” This cultural context helps us understand the deep anguish expressed by childless women in the Bible, such as Hannah (1 Samuel 1) and Rachel, who cried out to her husband Jacob, “Give me children, or I shall die!” (Genesis 30:1) (Morrow, 2016)

But the Bible also shows God’s compassion for the infertile. Isaiah 54:1 offers hope to the barren woman: “Sing, O barren one, who did not bear; break forth into singing and cry aloud, you who have not been in labor! For the children of the desolate one will be more than the children of her who is married,” says the Lord.” This passage, later quoted by Paul in Galatians 4:27, suggests that God can bring fruitfulness and joy even in the absence of biological children.

, we see numerous examples in Scripture of God intervening to open the wombs of barren women: Sarah (Genesis 21), Rebekah (Genesis 25), Rachel (Genesis 30), Hannah (1 Samuel 1), and Elizabeth (Luke 1). These stories demonstrate God’s power over fertility and His compassion for those who long for children.

At the same time, the New Testament presents a perspective that relativizes the importance of biological offspring. Jesus himself was unmarried and childless, yet He was the perfect embodiment of human fulfillment. He taught that spiritual kinship in God’s family supersedes biological family ties, saying, “Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother” (Matthew 12:50).

The apostle Paul, also unmarried and childless, encouraged believers to consider remaining single to devote themselves more fully to God’s work (1 Corinthians 7). He presented celibacy as a valid and even preferable option for some, challenging the cultural assumption that everyone must marry and have children. (Keller & Keller, 2011)

The early Christian community provided a new family structure that included and valued those without biological children. Widows and orphans were to be cared for (James 1:27), and all believers were considered part of God’s family.

In light of these teachings, we can see that while the Bible acknowledges the pain of infertility, it also offers hope and alternative paths to a fulfilling life. Childlessness need not be seen as a curse or a sign of God’s disfavor. Rather, it can be an opportunity to serve God and others in unique ways, perhaps through adoption, spiritual mentoring, or other forms of caregiving.

As Pope Francis has said, “Fruitfulness is a gift from God.” This fruitfulness can take many forms beyond biological children. The key is to remain open to God’s leading and to trust in His goodness and purpose for our lives, whether or not that includes having children of our own.

What does Jesus say about protecting children from harm or abuse?

Jesus speaks very strongly about the importance of protecting children from harm and the severe consequences for those who would abuse or lead them astray. His words reveal a deep concern for the vulnerability of children and the sacred responsibility we have to safeguard their well-being.

One of Jesus’ most forceful statements on this subject is found in Matthew 18:6, where He says, “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990) This vivid imagery underscores the gravity with which Jesus views harm done to children. He is saying, that it would be better for a person to die than to lead a child into sin or cause them spiritual harm.

Jesus goes on to warn in Matthew 18:10, “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990) This teaches us that children have a special place in God’s heart and that He is acutely aware of how they are treated. To despise or mistreat a child is to invite God’s displeasure.

In Mark 9:42, Jesus reiterates this warning: “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea.” The repetition of this teaching in multiple Gospels emphasizes its importance in Jesus’ message.

Jesus also demonstrates the value He places on children by His actions. In Mark 10:13-16, when people were bringing little children to Jesus for Him to bless them and the disciples rebuked them, Jesus became indignant. He said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990) This shows that Jesus prioritizes the care and nurturing of children, even when it might be seen as an inconvenience by others.

Jesus uses a child as an example of the greatest in the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:1-5), saying, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” ((III) & Witherington, 1990) This elevates the status of children and implies that how we treat them is directly related to how we treat Jesus Himself.

In all these teachings, we see Jesus’ heart for protecting the innocent and vulnerable. He calls us to create a society and a Church where children are safe, valued, and nurtured. As followers of Christ, we have a sacred duty to protect children from all forms of abuse – physical, emotional, and spiritual.

Pope Francis has echoed these teachings, saying, “Children are a gift. Each one is unique and unrepeatable, and at the same time unmistakably linked to his or her roots. To be a son or a daughter, in fact, according to God’s plan, means to carry within oneself the memory and hope of a love that has become concrete.” Let us take these words to heart and work tirelessly to create a world where every child is protected, cherished, and given the opportunity to flourish as God intends.

What biblical principles apply to adoption and caring for orphans?

The Scriptures speak to us with great tenderness about God’s heart for orphans and His call for us to care for those without families. We see this reflected beautifully in the words of the psalmist, who declares that God is “Father of the fatherless and protector of widows” (Psalm 68:5)(Tanquerey, 2000). Our Lord Jesus Christ himself, though divine, entered our world as a vulnerable child under the loving care of Mary and Joseph. In this, we see a powerful model of adoption – of welcoming a child not one’s own as a beloved son.

Throughout the Old Testament, we find God’s repeated exhortations to care for the orphan. The prophet Isaiah proclaims God’s command to “defend the fatherless” (Isaiah 1:17), while in Deuteronomy we read of God’s special concern that orphans be included in the community’s celebrations and provisions (Deuteronomy 16:11,14)(Finn, 2013). These teachings reveal adoption and care for orphans as a reflection of God’s own character and will for His people.

In the New Testament, we find this theme beautifully developed in the writings of St. Paul, who speaks of our own adoption as sons and daughters of God through Christ (Ephesians 1:5, Romans 8:15). This spiritual reality should move our hearts to extend the same love and welcome to orphans in need of families(Tanquerey, 2000). As James writes, “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction” (James 1:27)(MacDonald, 2009).

In our modern world with its many challenges, the call to care for orphans remains as urgent as ever. We must open our hearts and homes to children in need, whether through adoption, foster care, or supporting organizations that serve vulnerable youth. In doing so, we participate in God’s own work of redemption and healing. Let us remember that in welcoming these little ones, we welcome Christ himself (Matthew 25:40).

At the same time, we must approach adoption with great care and wisdom. It is a lifelong commitment that requires preparation, support, and ongoing formation in Christian virtues like patience, sacrifice, and unconditional love. We must also be attentive to ethical considerations, ensuring that adoptions are carried out with integrity and respect for birth families. Above all, let us keep the well-being of the child at the center, recognizing each one as a precious gift from God.

How should Christian parents approach education and spiritual formation of their children?

The education and spiritual formation of our children is one of the most sacred responsibilities entrusted to Christian parents. It is a task that requires our utmost dedication, wisdom, and reliance on God’s grace. As we reflect on this vital calling, let us draw inspiration from Scripture and the rich tradition of our faith.

We must recognize that the primary educators of children are their parents. The book of Deuteronomy exhorts parents to keep God’s commandments in their hearts and to “impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up” (Deuteronomy 6:7)(Winters, 2016). This beautiful image reminds us that spiritual formation is not confined to formal lessons, but should permeate the whole of family life.

In the Christian home, parents are called to create an atmosphere of love, faith, and virtue where children can encounter the living God. As St. Paul writes, fathers should bring up their children “in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4)(Wheat & Wheat, 2010). This involves not only teaching doctrine, but modeling a life of discipleship and cultivating the moral and spiritual virtues that will enable our children to follow Christ faithfully.

At the same time, we must be attentive to the intellectual formation of our children, recognizing that faith and reason are complementary gifts from God. The Church has long affirmed the value of education that develops the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. As parents, we should take an active interest in our children’s schooling, whether in Catholic schools, public institutions, or homeschooling, always seeking to integrate faith with their academic pursuits(Winters, 2016).

In today’s complex world, we face many challenges in raising children in the faith. The influence of secular culture, social media, and conflicting ideologies can seem overwhelming. Yet we must not lose heart! Instead, let us redouble our efforts to create strong Christian communities that support families in their educational mission. Parishes, youth groups, and faith-based activities can play a vital role in reinforcing the values taught at home.

Above all, let us remember that the most powerful form of education is the witness of our own lives. Children learn far more from what we do than from what we say. By striving to live out our faith with authenticity and joy, we provide our children with a compelling vision of what it means to follow Christ(Winters, 2016).

What does the Bible teach about respecting and honoring parents?

The commandment to honor our father and mother holds a special place among God’s instructions for righteous living. It is the first commandment that comes with a promise: “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you” (Exodus 20:12)(Dedon & Trostyanskiy, 2016). This divine mandate reflects the powerful importance of family relationships in God’s plan for human flourishing.

To honor our parents means more than mere obedience or outward respect. It calls us to a deep reverence for the gift of life we have received through them, and a recognition of their God-given authority in our formation. As the book of Proverbs reminds us, “Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching” (Proverbs 1:8). This wisdom acknowledges the irreplaceable role parents play in shaping our character and values.

Our Lord Jesus Christ himself exemplified perfect filial piety in his relationship with Mary and Joseph. Even as the incarnate Son of God, he submitted to their guidance during his hidden years in Nazareth. At the wedding feast of Cana, though his public ministry had not yet begun, he honored his mother’s request by performing his first miracle (John 2:1-11)(Dedon & Trostyanskiy, 2016). Most poignantly, even as he hung dying on the cross, Jesus ensured his mother would be cared for, entrusting her to the beloved disciple (John 19:26-27)(Dedon & Trostyanskiy, 2016).

The duty to honor our parents does not end when we reach adulthood or leave the family home. Rather, it takes on new dimensions as we mature. We are called to support our aging parents, both materially and emotionally. The apostle Paul writes, “If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever” (1 Timothy 5:8)(Dedon & Trostyanskiy, 2016). This care for elderly parents is a beautiful expression of gratitude for the love and sacrifices they have made on our behalf.

At the same time, we must acknowledge that family relationships can be complex and sometimes wounded by sin. Some may have experienced neglect, abuse, or abandonment from their parents. In such cases, the command to honor does not require us to deny the reality of harm or to place ourselves in danger. Rather, it calls us to a path of forgiveness, healing, and setting appropriate boundaries, always seeking the good of all involved.

For those blessed with loving parents, let us not take this gift for granted. Let us express our appreciation through words and deeds, seeking their counsel and including them in our lives. For those struggling with difficult family dynamics, let us pray for the grace of reconciliation and the wisdom to navigate these challenges with compassion.

Our relationship with our earthly parents should reflect and deepen our relationship with our Heavenly Father. As we grow in reverence and gratitude toward those who gave us life, may we also grow in love and obedience to the One who is the source of all fatherhood and motherhood.

How does Scripture address issues like abortion and the sanctity of life?

The sanctity of human life is a fundamental principle of our Christian faith, rooted in the powerful truth that every person is created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). From the moment of conception to natural death, each human life possesses inherent dignity and value that must be protected and cherished.

The Scriptures speak to us with great clarity about God’s intimate involvement in human life from its earliest stages. The psalmist declares, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13). The prophet Jeremiah recounts God’s words to him: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart” (Jeremiah 1:5)(Dodaro, 2014). These passages reveal the powerful sacredness of life in its prenatal state.

In light of this biblical witness, the Church has consistently taught that abortion is a grave evil, as it involves the deliberate taking of an innocent human life. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states unequivocally: “Human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception… Direct abortion, that is to say, abortion willed either as an end or a means, is gravely contrary to the moral law” (CCC 2270-2271)(Church, 2000).

At the same time, we must approach this sensitive issue with great compassion, recognizing the complex circumstances and intense pressures that can lead women to consider abortion. Our response must always be one of love, support, and concrete assistance for women facing crisis pregnancies. We are called to create a culture of life where every child is welcomed as a gift and every mother is given the resources and support she needs to choose life.

We must also acknowledge the deep wounds carried by those who have been involved in abortions. To these brothers and sisters, I echo the words of St. John Paul II: “The Church is aware of the many factors which may have influenced your decision, and she does not doubt that in many cases it was a painful and even shattering decision. The wound in your heart may not yet have healed. what happened was and remains terribly wrong. But do not give in to discouragement and do not lose hope” (Evangelium Vitae, 99). The mercy of God is greater than any sin, and healing and forgiveness are always possible through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

As we uphold the sanctity of life, we must also work to address the root causes that lead to abortion, including poverty, lack of healthcare, inadequate support systems, and cultural pressures. Our commitment to life must extend to all stages of human existence, encompassing care for the poor, the sick, the elderly, and all vulnerable members of society.

What examples of godly parenting can we find in the Bible?

The Scriptures provide us with many inspiring examples of godly parenting that can guide and encourage us in our own journey as mothers and fathers. These stories, while set in ancient times, offer timeless wisdom for nurturing faith and character in our children. By examining these narratives, we can discover practical applications of biblical teachings on raising sons that resonate even today. They remind us of the importance of instilling values such as love, respect, and integrity, which are foundational to our children’s development. Ultimately, these examples challenge us to be intentional in our parenting and to create a legacy of faith that can be passed down through generations.

One of the most beautiful examples we find is that of Hannah, the mother of the prophet Samuel. Unable to conceive for many years, Hannah poured out her heart to God in prayer, vowing to dedicate her child to the Lord’s service if she were blessed with a son (1 Samuel 1:11). When God answered her prayer, Hannah faithfully fulfilled her vow, bringing young Samuel to serve in the temple under Eli’s guidance. Her selfless act of surrender and her continued support of her son through yearly visits and gifts demonstrate a powerful trust in God’s plan and a commitment to spiritual formation(Burke-Sivers, 2015).

We see another powerful model in the life of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Her fiat – her “yes” to God’s call to bear the Savior – is the ultimate example of cooperation with divine grace in the task of parenting. Throughout Jesus’ life, we see Mary’s quiet presence, pondering the mysteries of her son’s identity and mission in her heart (Luke 2:19). Even at the foot of the cross, Mary’s steadfast love and faith shine forth, offering us a powerful example of accompanying our children through both joys and sorrows(Dedon & Trostyanskiy, 2016).

The New Testament also gives us glimpses of godly fatherhood in the person of Joseph, the guardian of the Holy Family. Though he speaks no words in Scripture, Joseph’s actions reveal a man of deep faith, courage, and selfless love. He accepts Mary as his wife despite her mysterious pregnancy, protects the child Jesus from Herod’s threats, and provides for his family through his work as a carpenter. Joseph’s quiet strength and obedience to God’s guidance offer a powerful model for fathers today(Dedon & Trostyanskiy, 2016).

In the Old Testament, we find wisdom for parenting in the book of Proverbs, traditionally associated with King Solomon. These teachings emphasize the importance of discipline, instruction, and modeling righteous behavior: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it” (Proverbs 22:6). This reminds us that parenting is a long-term investment, requiring patience, consistency, and trust in God’s work in our children’s lives.

As we reflect on these biblical examples, let us remember that godly parenting is not about perfection, but about faithfulness. All of these figures had their struggles and shortcomings, yet they persevered in faith and love. Their stories encourage us to rely on God’s grace, to be intentional in passing on our faith, and to trust in the Lord’s guidance as we raise our children.