Child Dedication

Mark 10:13–16 “And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.”

I. Children are a gift from God

Psalm 127:3 “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.”

Proverbs 17:6 “Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers.”

II. Children are and should be permitted to be children

A. They sometimes make mistakes

Proverbs 22:15 “Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.”

Ephesians 4:14 “so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes.”

B. They look at life differently

Matthew 18:1–5 “At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me,”

C. They often set a great example to follow

David

Daniel

The little Maid of Israel

Samuel

Mark 10:13–16 “And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.”

III. Children need Godly influences

Ephesians 6:1–4 “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

Proverbs 13:24 “Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.”