Understanding Matthew 19:13
Bible Verse: Matthew 19:13 - "Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them."
Summary of Matthew 19:13
This verse depicts an encounter where parents brought their children to Jesus, hoping for His blessing through prayer and the laying on of hands. The disciples, however, saw this act as an interruption, leading them to rebuke the parents. This highlights both the cultural context surrounding children in that era and the differing attitudes toward Jesus’ mission and the value placed on children.
Commentary Insights
Matthew Henry Commentary
Matthew Henry notes that the disciples’ rebuke reflected a misunderstanding of Jesus’ priorities. Children were often regarded as unimportant in society, yet Jesus welcomed them warmly, underscoring their significance in the Kingdom of Heaven. This verse emphasizes Jesus' love and acceptance of all, and it teaches that faith should be childlike in its simplicity and trust.
Albert Barnes' Commentary
Albert Barnes highlights the cultural context, explaining that children were generally seen as insignificant, yet Jesus turned that notion on its head. He fervently welcomed the little ones, indicating that they are valued and loved by God. Barnes suggests this incident illustrates that the Kingdom of God is open to those who approach Him with the humility and purity of a child.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke takes a deeper dive into the actions of the disciples, framing their response as a typical human reaction to what was deemed an annoyance. Clarke interprets this as a lesson on God’s unconditional love and the open invitation to come to Him. Jesus represents a different standard, acknowledging the importance of reaching out to children as vital members of the faith community.
Connections Between Bible Verses
Matthew 19:13 can be linked to several other verses that reinforce its themes:
- Mark 10:13-16: This parallel account further emphasizes Jesus' joy in receiving children and highlights the necessity of childlike faith.
- Luke 18:15-17: Another account showing the same interaction, with Jesus stating that the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
- Matthew 18:3-4: Jesus teaches about humility, noting that one must become like a child to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
- Psalm 127:3: Emphasizes the value of children, declaring them as a heritage from the Lord.
- 1 John 3:1: Speaks to the love of the Father in calling us His children, illustrating the deep bond between God and His followers.
- Proverbs 22:6: Highlights the importance of teaching children in the right way so they will remain steadfast in their faith.
- Matthew 21:15-16: Reflects Jesus accepting praise from children, showcasing their importance in His ministry.
Thematic Bible Verse Connections
The themes present in Matthew 19:13 reveal a significant message regarding the value of children and the nature of faith. This leads to considering the following:
- Children in the Kingdom of God: The verses remind believers of how Jesus prioritizes those seen as marginalized, a recurring theme throughout the Gospels.
- Faith and Humility: This incident links to Jesus' teachings on having a humble spirit, reinforcing spiritual receptivity.
- The Love of Jesus: In various passages, including John's writings, we see a divine affection for all, especially the vulnerable.
Cross-Referencing Biblical Texts
Using cross-referencing tools to analyze Matthew 19:13 allows for a deeper understanding of its implications. Here are tools and methods that can enhance Bible study:
- Bible concordance: Provides terms and their occurrences, facilitating topic searches.
- Bible cross-reference guide: Identifies similar themes across scriptures for comparative analysis.
- Bible reference resources: Broadens the understanding of scripture through various interpretations and connections.
Conclusion
Matthew 19:13 extends beyond a simple narrative of children being brought to Jesus; it provokes profound reflections on humility, acceptance, and the radical nature of Jesus’ love. Through leveraging cross-references and inter-Biblical dialogues, one can explore themes of faith that reverberate throughout the scriptures. Embracing these connections fosters a deeper understanding of how Jesus values all individuals, inviting them into a rich relationship with Him.
