Luke 18:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 18:16
16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Chapter Context
Luke 18 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, wisdom, discipleship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 18:16
16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Analysis
Jesus rebukes disciples: 'Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.' The command 'suffer' (Greek 'aphete,' ἄφετε, allow, permit) and 'forbid them not' doubles the imperative—don't hinder children from Jesus. The reason follows: 'of such is the kingdom of God.' Children exemplify kingdom citizenship—humble, dependent, trusting, without pretense. The Greek 'tōn toioutōn' (τῶν τοιούτων, of such) means 'of such kind'—childlikeness, not merely childhood, characterizes kingdom members. Adults must become like children to enter God's kingdom.
Historical Context
Disciples rebuked people bringing infants to Jesus for blessing (v. 15), reflecting cultural devaluation of children—seen but not heard, unimportant until adulthood. Jesus' indignation and correction elevated children's status and used them as spiritual examples. His statement that the kingdom belongs to 'such'—those with childlike qualities—challenged adult pretensions and religious sophistication. Children's dependency, trust, and humility model proper approach to God. Early church baptized children of believers, partly based on this text. Modern application emphasizes becoming childlike (not childish)—humble, dependent, trusting—essential for kingdom entry.
Reflection
- What childlike qualities make children examples of kingdom citizenship, and how should adults cultivate these?
- How does Jesus' welcome of children challenge cultural and religious attitudes that dismiss or devalue the weak and dependent?
Word Studies
- Kingdom: βασιλεία (Basileia) G932 - Kingdom, reign
Cross-References
- References God: Genesis 21:4, Deuteronomy 31:12, Acts 2:39
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 7:14, 14:20, 1 Peter 2:2