“Then they also brought infants to him that he might touch them; but when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to Him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”(Matthew 18:15-17)

The above statement by Jesus is very powerful and should not be taken lightly. Remember the word of God is a spirit and it is life (John 6:63). When God speaks, his words will not return to him void; but must accomplish that which he pleases and prosper in the thing where he sent it (Isaiah 55:11).

Let us explore this verse more closely.

While Christ was on earth the bible said that he healed all the diseases of the people (Luke 6:17). He also delivered them from the bondage of sin and whatever evil spirits that was affecting them. Parents also wanted their children to be blessed by Jesus.

After all, similar to us they wanted their children to grow up to become successful men and women in the future. So a direct blessing from Jesus would guarantee this. As they brought their toddlers and children to Christ the disciples became upset and thought that they were nuisance only seeking trouble. Isn’t this behavior typical of how some people view children – “trouble makers and irritants?” So they rebuked the parents and tried to chase them away.

Jesus, our Lord, is not like man and so he does not think in the manner in which we do. When he saw the behavior of his disciples he rebuked them and told them to allow the children to come to him because they are very important people within his kingdom. Jesus further pointed out that if we as adults do not receive the kingdom of God as a little child we will not enter it. This is powerful statement indeed.

What is the kingdom of God?

The kingdom of God is not meat or drink; but righteousness, and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost (Romans 14:17 KJV).  So this kingdom is not literal it is spiritual and you can only receive it through the Holy spirit of God which will teach you all things. When you receive Christ as your Savior you automatically receive his Holy Spirit to live inside your heart. This is where the kingdom of God will be established.

Why do you need to receive the Kingdom of God as a child?

It does not mean that if you do not accept Christ as your savior when you are a child you will not enter in the Kingdom of God. Many people accept Christ as an adult and are enjoying life in the kingdom of God. So this statement is referring to the characteristics of a child. Children are innocent, humble, loving and sincere people. This must be the state of your heart when you seek God in repentance and for forgiveness. Note that God looks at your heart and not your physical attributes. You therefore cannot deceive God. The Holy Spirit will not dwell in a heart that is stubborn and self-willed and so his kingdom will not be established in such heart.

Advantages of living in the kingdom of God

• Total protection from the enemy
• Peace and harmony in your life.
• Wisdom and revelation from the Lord
• Continual favors from God.
• Power, authority and anointing.
• Health and deliverance.

These are just a few of the blessings that you will receive so you cannot afford to be outside the kingdom of God.

In addition, your children are welcome in this kingdom and will receive the same blessings that you are receiving while living in this kingdom. To ensure all of this your only duty as parents or guardians is to simply take your children to Jesus so that he can receive and bless them.

I hope that if you have not done so as yet you will do this today.

 

 

 

 

 

Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one little child like this in my name receives me (Matthew 18: 4-5).