Matthew 19:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 19:14
14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
Chapter Context
Matthew 19 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, love, judgment. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
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 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 19:14
14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
Analysis
Jesus rebukes disciples: 'Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven' (Greek: ἄφετε τὰ παιδία καὶ μὴ κωλύετε αὐτὰ ἐλθεῖν πρός με, 'permit the children and do not hinder them to come to me'). 'Suffer' (ἄφετε) means 'allow, permit.' Disciples tried blocking children from Jesus, viewing them as unimportant. Jesus invites them, declaring 'of such is the kingdom' (τοιούτων γάρ ἐστιν ἡ βασιλεία) - the kingdom belongs to those with childlike faith. This affirms children's spiritual capacity and models humility, trust, and receptivity required for salvation.
Historical Context
In ancient culture, children had no social status. Disciples reflected cultural values by dismissing children as unimportant. Jesus' embrace of children was radically countercultural, affirming their worth and spiritual responsiveness. This teaching grounded infant baptism practices (though some dispute application) and emphasized evangelism of children. Early Christian communities welcomed children in worship, contrasting with pagan practices of infant exposure and neglect. Jesus' treatment of children demonstrated kingdom values inverting worldly hierarchies.
Reflection
- Why did disciples try to prevent children from coming to Jesus?
- What does Jesus' welcome of children teach about kingdom values and who belongs?
- How should churches demonstrate Jesus' priority of welcoming children?
Word Studies
- Heaven: οὐρανός (Ouranos) G3772 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Matthew 11:25
- Kingdom: Matthew 18:3, Mark 10:14
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 14:20