April 15th, 2012
MP3 Audio
Youtube video
Qualifications to Enter God's Kingdom (Mark 10:13-16)
A. Different standards and values than those of this world
1. The world emphasizes "having a lot" and "getting more" (13)
13 People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them.
2. God wants us to understand what we lack (14)
14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
B. What does it mean to be like a child? (15, 16)
15 I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." 16 And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.
1. Weakness like that of child
2. Faith like a child
Summary
Children are precious to their parents, but they are often overlooked by society. Compared to adults, children lack in strength, knowledge, and material resources--they need the help of the adults in their lives. Jesus said that the kingdom of God belongs to people like these. Children know that they are weak and they also know that they are loved unconditionally. That's why they are willing to accept help when it is offered. As adults we sometimes don't realize that we need help and this lack of realization can prevent us from receiving God's help.
Discussion
1. Why did the disciples rebuke the people who brought the children to Jesus?
2. What does it mean to receive the kingdom of God like children?