New Testament · Gospel

Matthew 19:14

The Cost of Following

But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14 · Berean Standard Bible
What It Means

Matthew 19:14, in plain English

Jesus says, 'Let the children come to Me — don't stop them! The kingdom of heaven belongs to people just like these.'

Why it's here

Jesus flips the script. The people the disciples thought were least important are actually the kingdom's best example.

Who's speaking

Jesus speaks up for the children and teaches everyone what the kingdom really looks like.

Where it sits in the story

Jesus doesn't just allow the children — He holds them up as an example. Come to God like a child, with open hands and a trusting heart.

A Closer Look

The scholarly reading

Jesus rebukes the disciples and declares the kingdom of heaven 'belongs to such as these' (tōn toioutōn), elevating the child's receptivity and dependence as the model for kingdom entry.

Language and setting

The child represents total dependence and lack of merit — the very posture required to receive the kingdom as gift, not achievement.

Voice

Jesus corrects the disciples and makes a theological statement about the nature of the kingdom.

Significance

Jesus overturns the social hierarchy: the ones turned away at the door are the very model of kingdom citizens.

In context

Matthew 19:12–16

12For there are eunuchs who were born that way; others were made that way by men; and still others live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.”

13Then little children were brought to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them and pray for them. And the disciples rebuked those who brought them.

14But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

15And after He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there.

16Just then a man came up to Jesus and inquired, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to obtain eternal life?”

Read all of Matthew 19 — A rich young man walks away sad, children are welcomed, and the disciples wonder who can possibly be saved. Jesus redefines what it costs to follow him.

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