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.” Mark 10:14-15
I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark. Today, I focus on an unassisted review of Mark 10:13-16, which is the text for the next chapter of the commentary. Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method:
- What do we learn from the passage about God?: Jesus believes that children are important - we as a community of believers should not put anything in the way of them hearing the gospel message. Jesus also wants all of us to emulate how children are, including how they are curious and soak up their teachings, and how they possess other attributes, including dependence on others for care and provision.
- What do we learn from the passage about people?: Some see children as important - see the parents and caregivers in v13. There are many people however - i.e. the disciples v13 - who often don't see children as important to God. Yet, anyone seeking to receive the Kingdom of God must approach God with a child-like presence and unless you do, you will not experience nor enter God's Kingdom.
- Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Children are an example to follow in terms of their attributes of learning and dependence, etc. The claim to promise is the inverse of v15 where if believers do receive the Kingdom of God like a child we will enter it.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves. Thank You for my salvation and for meeting my every need. I am not deserving. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
