July 15 | Disciples Receive the Kingdom Like a Child

Series | The Life of Discipleship

Scripture | Luke 18:17, “Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

Lesson 15 | Disciples Receive the Kingdom Like a Child

Jesus was so popular that people from all over Israel began to come to Him just to be blessed.  Some of the people would even travel with their children so Jesus could touch them and speak a blessing over their lives.  One day as a large number of parents brought their babies and children for Jesus to bless the disciples told them He was too busy.

Upon hearing what the disciples were saying to the parents Jesus corrected them and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these,” Luke 18:16.  Jesus then used the children as an example for the disciples and taught the following truth- that unless everyone receives the Kingdom of God like a child they will never enter into it.

Children, though no perfect or free from error, have simple faith and trust in their parents.  Children receive by faith whatever their parents give them because if they don’t they will die.  They literally have to receive whatever their parents give them for their day-to-day survival.

Likewise, Jesus was teaching His disciples that they must “receive” the Kingdom of God in the same way.  God’s Kingdom is the rule of King Jesus in one’s life.  Therefore, when someone is in Jesus’ Kingdom they are to receive by faith His righteousness, peace, and joy without hesitation.

Often times when we face hard times we lose our child like faith in Jesus and try to fix our own problems.  However, in our times of testing Jesus wants us to fully trust Him like a child.  Therefore, be like a child in your faith and receive all the good Jesus has for you!     

Reflection | Do you have child-like faith in Jesus?

Action | (1) Examine your heart to see if you truly trust Jesus 100%. (2) Repent of any prideful mindsets you may have.  (3) Lastly, daily receive from Jesus all His blessings like a child receives from His father.   

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | 1 Chronicles 19:1-21:30, Romans 2:25-3:8, Psalm 11:1-7, & Proverbs 19:10-12. Click here to read online.