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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Mark 10:13–16. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
It is looked upon as the indication of a kind and tender disposition to take notice of little children, and this was remarkable in our Lord Jesus, which is an encouragement not only to little children to apply themselves to Christ when they are very young, but to grown people, who are conscious to themselves of weakness and childishness, and of being, through manifold infirmities, helpless and useless, like little children. Here we have,
I.Little children brought to Christ, Mar 10:13.
Their parents, or whoever they were that had the nursing of them, brought them to him, that he should touch them, in token of his commanding and conferring a blessing on them. It doth not appear that they needed any bodily cure, nor were they capable of being taught: but it seems,
1.That they had the care of them were mostly concerned about their souls, their better part, which ought to be the principal care of all parents for their children; for that is the principal part, and it is well with them, it if be well with their souls.
2.They believed that Christ's blessing would do their souls good; and therefore to him they brought them, that he might touch them, knowing that he could reach their hearts, when nothing their parents could say to them, or do for them, would reach them. We may present our children to Christ, now that he is in heaven, for from thence he can reach them with his blessing, and therein we may act faith upon the fulness and extent of his grace, the kind intimations he hath always given of favour to the seed of the faithful, the tenour of the covenant with Abraham, and the promise to us and to our children, especially that great promise of pouring his Spirit upon our seed, and his blessing upon our offspring, Isa 44:3.
II.The discouragement which the disciples gave to the bringing of children to Christ; They rebuked them that brought them; as if they had been sure that they knew their Master's mind in this matter, whereas he had lately cautioned them not to despise the little ones.
III.The encouragement Christ gave to it.
1.He took it very ill that his disciples should keep them off; When he saw it, he was much displeased, Mar 10:14. "What do you mean? Will you hinder me from doing good, from doing good to the rising generation, to the lambs of the flock?" Christ is very angry with his own disciples, if they discountenance any in coming to him themselves, or in bringing their children to him.
2.He ordered that they should be brought to him, and nothing said or done to hinder them; suffer little children, as soon as they are capable, to come to me, to offer up their supplications to me, and to receive instructions from me. Little children are welcome betimes to the throne of grace with their Hosannas.
3.He owned them as members of his church, as they had been of the Jewish church. He came to set up the kingdom of God among men, and took this occasion to declare that that kingdom admitted little children to be the subjects of it, and gave them a title to the privileges of subjects. Nay, the kingdom of God is to be kept up by such: they must be taken in when they are little children, that they may be secured for hereafter, to bear up the name of Christ.
4.That there must be something of the temper and disposition of little children found in all that Christ will own and bless. We must receive the kingdom of God as little children (Mar 10:15); that is, we must stand affected to Christ and his grace as little children do to their parents, nurses, and teachers. We must be inquisitive, as children, must learn as children (that is the learning age), and in learning must believe, Oportet discentem credere - A learner must believe. The mind of a child is white paper (tabula rose - a mere blank), you may write upon it what you will; such must our minds be to the pen of the blessed Spirit. Children are under government; so must we be. Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? We must receive the kingdom of God as the child Samuel did, Speak, Lord, for thy servant heareth. Little children depend upon their parents' wisdom and care, are carried in their arms, go where they send them, and take what they provide for them; and thus must we receive the kingdom of God, with a humble resignation of ourselves to Jesus Christ, and an easy dependence upon him, both for strength and righteousness, for tuition, provision, and a portion.
5.He received the children, and gave them what was desired (Mar 10:16); He took them up in his arms, in token of his affectionate concern for them; put his hands upon them, as was desired, and blessed them. She how he out-did the desires of these parents; they begged he would touch them, but he did more.
(1.)He took them in his arms. Now the scripture was fulfilled (Isa 40:11), He shall gather the lambs in his arms, and carry them in his bosom. Time was, when Christ himself was taken up in old Simeon's arms, Luk 2:28. And now he took up these children, not complaining of the burthen (as Moses did, when he was bid to carry Israel, that peevish child, in his bosom, as a nursing father bears the sucking child, Num 11:12), but pleased with it. If we in a right manner bring our children to Christ, he will take them up, not only in the arms of his power and providence, but in the arms of his pity and grace (as Eze 16:8); underneath them are the everlasting arms.
(2.)He put his hands upon them, denoting the bestowing of his Spirit upon them (for that is the hand of the Lord), and his setting them apart for himself.
(3.)He blessed them with the spiritual blessings he came to give. Our children are happy, if they have but the Mediator's blessing for their portion. It is true, we do not read that he baptized these children, baptism was not fully settled as the door of admission into the church until after Christ's resurrection; but he asserted their visible church-membership, and by another sign bestowed those blessings upon them, which are now appointed to be conveyed and conferred by baptism, the seal of the promise, which is to us and to our children.
Historical interpretation
Seven Centuries of Reception
5 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
(ubi sup.) But the disciples, out of regard for the dignity of Christ, forbade those who brought them. And this is what is added: And his disciples rebuked those who brought them. But our Saviour, in order to teach His disciples to be modest in their ideas, and to tread under foot worldly pride, takes the children to Him, and assigns to them the kingdom of God: wherefore it goes on: And he said unto them, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not.
(ubi sup.) For indeed the mind of a child is pure from all passions, for which reason, we ought by free choice to do those works, which children have by nature.
(Vict. Ant. e Cat. in Marc.) There is no contrariety in Matthew's relating that He spoke these words to the Pharisees, though Mark says that they were spoken to the disciples; for it is possible that He may have spoken them to both.
(Vict. Ant. e Cat. in Marc.) Fitly does He take them up into His arms to bless them, as it were, lifting into His own bosom, and reconciling Himself to His creation, which in the beginning fell from Him, and was separated from Him. Again, He puts His hands upon the children, to teach us the working of His divine power; and indeed, He puts His hands upon them, as others are wont to do, though His operation is not as that of others, for though He was God, He kept to human ways of acting, as being very man.
And embracing them and laying His hands on them, He blessed them. By embracing, He blessed the children to signify that the humble in spirit are worthy of His blessing, grace, and love.
(ubi sup.) That is, if ye have not innocence and purity of mind like that of children, ye cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven. Or else, we are ordered to receive the kingdom of God, that is, the doctrine of the Gospel, as a little child, because as a child, when he is taught, does not contradict his teachers, nor put together reasonings and words against them, but receives with faith what they teach, and obeys them with awe, so we also are to receive the word of the Lord with simple obedience, and without any gainsaying. It goes on: And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.
(ubi sup.) Having embraced the children, He also blessed them, implying that the lowly in spirit are worthy of His blessing, grace, and love.
The wickedness of the Pharisees in tempting Christ, has been related above, and now is shown the great faith of the multitude, who believed that Christ conferred a blessing on the children whom they brought to Him, by the mere laying on of His hands. Wherefore it is said: And they brought young children to him, that he might touch them.
Wherefore He says not, for of these, but of such is the kingdom of God, that is, of persons who have both in their intention and their work the harmlessness and simplicity which children have by nature. For a child does not hate, does nothing of evil intent, nor though beaten does he quit his mother; and though she clothe him in vile garments, prefers them to kingly apparel; in like manner he, who lives according to the good ways of his mother the Church, honours nothing before her, nay, not pleasure, which is the queen of many; wherefore also the Lord subjoins, Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
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Summary
Mark 10:16 beautifully culminates Jesus' interaction with children, depicting His tender and intentional embrace of the little ones. Despite His disciples' attempts to hinder access, Jesus welcomed them, physically took them into His arms, laid His hands upon them, and bestowed a profound blessing. This act powerfully illustrates Jesus' counter-cultural valuation of the vulnerable, His compassionate heart, and the essential nature of childlike humility for entrance into the Kingdom of God.
Context
Literary Context
Mark 10:16 serves as the climactic action following a pivotal teaching moment by Jesus. Immediately preceding this verse, in Mark 10:13-15, the disciples had rebuked those bringing children to Jesus, likely viewing them as a distraction or insignificant. Jesus' response was one of "indignation" (Mark 10:14), as He declared that the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these, and that one must receive it like a child to enter. Verse 16 then provides the tangible demonstration of this teaching, showing Jesus not merely tolerating but actively embracing and blessing the very individuals the disciples had dismissed. This passage is strategically placed before the encounter with the rich young ruler (Mark 10:17-22), establishing a stark contrast between the humble, dependent posture of a child and the self-sufficient, wealth-bound heart of the rich man.
Historical & Cultural Context
In the ancient world, particularly during the time of Jesus, children held a significantly lower social status than adults. They were often seen as property, lacking legal rights, and not considered full members of society until reaching maturity. Their presence was often overlooked or dismissed in public gatherings. Rabbis typically did not spend time with children, focusing instead on adult disciples. Therefore, Jesus' actions in Mark 10:16 were profoundly counter-cultural and revolutionary. By physically embracing and blessing children, Jesus not only elevated their status but also challenged the prevailing societal norms, demonstrating God's radical love and care for the marginalized and vulnerable. This act would have been astonishing to contemporary observers, underscoring the radical nature of the Kingdom Jesus proclaimed.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully reinforces several key themes prevalent in Mark's Gospel and Jesus' ministry. Firstly, it highlights Jesus' profound compassion and accessibility, especially towards those typically overlooked or deemed insignificant by society. His willingness to engage personally with children showcases a divine love that transcends social hierarchies. Secondly, it underscores the radical nature of the Kingdom of God, which is not entered through power, status, or self-sufficiency, but through a posture of childlike humility, dependence, and trust, as taught in Mark 10:15. Thirdly, the act of blessing signifies Jesus' divine authority and power to impart spiritual favor and grace, confirming His identity as the Son of God. Finally, it emphasizes the inherent value of every individual in God's eyes, regardless of age or social standing, a theme woven throughout Jesus' interactions with the poor, the sick, and the outcast.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb, unique to Mark's Gospel, means "to take in one's arms" or "to embrace." It conveys a deep sense of intimacy, affection, and personal care. Jesus didn't merely touch them from a distance; He drew them close, signifying a profound, loving welcome and a protective gesture. This physical embrace underscores the personal and tender nature of His interaction, demonstrating a warmth that contrasts sharply with the disciples' earlier rebuke.
This verb means "to place" or "to set." When combined with "hands," it refers to the laying on of hands, a gesture with significant biblical precedent. In this context, it is not merely a casual touch but an intentional act signifying identification, impartation, or blessing. It suggests a deliberate, authoritative, and personal act of bestowing favor or spiritual grace, linking Jesus' physical presence to His divine power.
Derived from "eu" (well) and "logos" (word), this verb means "to speak well of" or, in a religious context, "to invoke a benediction upon," "to praise," or "to prosper." Here, it signifies Jesus' act of calling down divine favor, protection, and spiritual well-being upon the children. It is not a mere good wish but an authoritative declaration of God's grace and favor being extended to them, an act of spiritual impartation from the Son of God.
Verse Breakdown
"And he took them up in his arms"
This clause highlights Jesus' immediate and tender physical engagement with the children. It emphasizes His personal initiative and the deep affection He held for them. The act of embracing them signifies a welcoming, protective, and intimate gesture, directly counteracting the disciples' dismissive attitude and the societal devaluation of children.
"put [his] hands upon them"
This action denotes a deliberate and significant gesture of impartation. The laying on of hands in biblical tradition is often associated with blessing, healing, commissioning, or the transfer of spiritual authority. Here, it underscores the intentionality and spiritual weight of Jesus' interaction, signifying a direct personal connection and the channeling of divine favor.
"and blessed them"
This final clause reveals the ultimate purpose and outcome of Jesus' actions. The blessing was not a mere formality but a profound spiritual act. It signifies Jesus' authoritative invocation of God's favor, grace, and prosperity upon the children, confirming their value in God's eyes and demonstrating His divine power to bestow spiritual gifts and well-being.
Literary Devices
Mark 10:16 employs several potent literary devices. Symbolism is prominent, as the children themselves symbolize humility, dependence, and openness—qualities Jesus had just declared essential for entering the Kingdom of God. Jesus' physical actions of embracing and laying hands on them serve as powerful Imagery, painting a vivid picture of His tender compassion and accessibility. There is a strong Contrast between the disciples' initial rebuke and Jesus' welcoming embrace, highlighting the counter-cultural nature of Jesus' ministry and the values of the Kingdom. Furthermore, the passage demonstrates Embodiment, where Jesus' teaching about the Kingdom is not just spoken but lived out through His actions, providing a tangible example of what it means to welcome and value those whom society might disregard.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Mark 10:16 is a profound theological statement on the nature of God's kingdom and the heart of Christ. It reveals that God's favor is not predicated on social status, age, or intellectual achievement, but on a posture of humble dependence. Jesus' actions demonstrate that the vulnerable and seemingly insignificant are precisely those whom God embraces and blesses. This passage challenges believers to re-evaluate their own biases and to cultivate a childlike faith characterized by trust, humility, and openness to receive God's grace. It underscores the radical inclusivity of the gospel, where all are welcome who come with a receptive heart.
Reflection and Application
Mark 10:16 offers timeless and transformative lessons for contemporary believers. It calls us to cultivate a heart that mirrors Jesus' own—one that actively seeks out, values, and embraces the vulnerable, the marginalized, and the overlooked in our communities, particularly children. This passage reminds us that true spiritual maturity is not found in self-sufficiency or intellectual prowess, but in a humble, trusting dependence on God, much like a child relies completely on a loving parent. It challenges us to create environments, both within our families and our faith communities, where children are not merely tolerated but are genuinely welcomed, cherished, and nurtured as precious image-bearers of God. Furthermore, it reassures us that Jesus desires to draw us close, to embrace us in His loving arms, and to bestow His divine blessing upon us, regardless of our perceived status or worth.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Jesus' disciples try to stop the children from coming to Him?
The disciples likely acted according to the prevailing cultural norms of the time, where children held little social status and were not considered important enough to warrant the attention of a revered rabbi like Jesus. They may have viewed the children as a distraction from Jesus' more "serious" ministry to adults, or perhaps they were trying to protect Jesus from what they perceived as an interruption. Their actions, however, revealed a misunderstanding of Jesus' mission and the true nature of the Kingdom of God, which Jesus immediately corrected with indignation, as seen in Mark 10:14.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Mark 10:16, while a beautiful moment of Jesus' earthly compassion, points profoundly to His greater redemptive work and the nature of God's kingdom. Jesus' embrace of the children foreshadows His ultimate embrace of all who come to Him in humble faith, regardless of their social standing or perceived unworthiness. Just as He took these little ones into His arms, so He extends an open invitation to all humanity to enter His kingdom, not through self-righteousness or worldly power, but through a childlike dependence on Him as Savior and Lord. His laying on of hands and blessing them prefigures the spiritual blessings and new life He offers through His atoning sacrifice on the cross. He is the Good Shepherd who gathers the lambs in His arms (Isaiah 40:11), the one who welcomes all who are weary and burdened (Matthew 11:28). This act of blessing the children is a tangible demonstration of the divine grace that flows from Christ, making it possible for anyone, no matter how small or insignificant they feel, to become a beloved child of God through faith in Him (John 1:12). The Kingdom belongs to such as these, not because of their innocence, but because their posture of dependence perfectly illustrates the posture required to receive the King.