Ministry to Children

One of the most important ministries but not one of the most glamorous.

One of the most important ministries but certainly not easy

One of the most important ministries and close to the heart of Christ

Lessons we can learn

Humility - Matt. 18:3

turn = turn from the desire to be the greatest

Dependence = “The child is weak, small, basically helpless, and unimportant in comparison with grown-ups. It is dependent on others; the younger it is the more dependent. This objective insignificance of the child, not any particular characteristic of children, is set forth as the way in which disciples are to think of themselves” (Hamann).

Warnings

Don't offend - 18:6

The verb is σχανδαλίζω, which speaks of setting off the bait stick of a trap and thus ensnaring.

But here the sense is “cause to sin,” perhaps especially in the sense of cause to apostatize rather than cause offense.

The “large millstone” (literally, millstone for a donkey) referred to the huge stone wheels that were attached to a horizontal bar connected to a donkey’s harness. As the animal walked around in circles, the wheel rolled over a raised stone slab (similar in appearance to a large birdbath), crushing the grain underneath. Pelagei (“depths”) refers to the deepest part of the sea. With this vivid metaphor, Jesus leaves no one in doubt over the certainty of drowning. Jesus’ logic proceeds as in 5:21–22. He does not imply that one evil act leads to damnation, but a life-style characterized by causing others to sin is incompatible with true discipleship.

The Rich Young Ruler - 19:16

Don't despise - Matt. 18:10

καταφρονέω = look down upon, think slightly of

angels = Perhaps our insertion of “guardian” before angel is misleading: the angels of which Jesus speaks do not “guard” the little ones, but bring their situation before God. He is using picturesque language to bring out the truth that God in heaven is aware of the situation here on earth of even the lowliest of his people.

Be Like Jesus - 19:14

Welcome them

suffer = allow

forbid not = command

Bless them

Mark 10:13–16

13 And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them.

14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.

15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.

16 And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.

Pray for them - laid hands on...