The Lord Jesus Christ taught his disciples, setting a child in their midst and explaining the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 18:2-4) There is a tradition that the child was Ignatius of Antioch, who later became a leader of the church and a great writer. Later he was martyred for the Lord according to the bible commentator William Barclay. Christian walk begins with repentance from sin, the world, and Satan. Then a person must become like a child. It does not mean to become immature or childish, but humble. God uses humble and foolish things to confound the wise and the proud. (I Corinthians 1:27)
Accept the call: The Lord called the boy, and he came willingly. There was spontaneous obedience. The child did not hesitate, delay, or run away. In the same way, when God calls us, we must come willingly.
Child teachers: A child is not given importance in Jewish society and most cultures. Most cultures believe that children should look to adults and adults should not look to children. The Lord reversed the order and gave them an important place by making them teachers.
Non-threatening: Children are not threatening. No one would be afraid to meet a child. So should the disciples be. With winsome kindness, Christians should attract people towards them.
Do not deceive: Children are not good at deceiving others. Mostly, they are truthful, straightforward, and innocent. Followers of the Lord Jesus Christ should be trustworthy, and should not deceive, cheat, or tell lies to others.
Humility: The children are not conscious about their social status. They love all, trust all, and treat all well. They do not try to be humble but are. Being a disciple of the Lord means being humble and serving others as God’s servants. The Lord Jesus Christ demonstrated humility and service by washing the feet of disciples in the Upper Room. (John 13:2-17)
Faith: Children easily trust others, including their words. The disciples should trust the Lord and His Word to receive salvation and walk in faith.
Am I a little child of God?