Matthew 19:13

KJV

¶ Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put [his] hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G5119} were there brought {G4374} unto him {G846} little children {G3813}, that {G2443} he should put {G2007} his hands {G5495} on {G2007} them {G846}, and {G2532} pray {G4336}: and {G1161} the disciples {G3101} rebuked {G2008} them {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then children were brought to him so that he might lay his hands on them and pray for them, but the talmidim rebuked the people bringing them.

Berean Standard Bible

Then the 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.

American Standard Version

Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should lay his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 19:13 presents a poignant scene where parents bring young children to Jesus, seeking His blessing through the laying on of hands and prayer. However, the disciples, perhaps seeing this as an interruption or an undignified task for their Master, sternly rebuke those who brought the children. This brief but powerful interaction serves as a vivid illustration of Jesus' radical inclusivity and compassion, contrasting sharply with the disciples' still-developing understanding of the Kingdom of Heaven and its values.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Matthew's narrative, immediately following Jesus' extensive discussion on marriage, divorce, and celibacy (Matthew 19:1-12). The preceding dialogue involved complex theological and legalistic arguments with the Pharisees, culminating in Jesus' challenging statements about the demanding nature of discipleship regarding marriage. The sudden shift to the simple, humble act of bringing children for a blessing provides a stark contrast, moving from abstract theological debate to a concrete demonstration of Jesus' accessible and compassionate ministry. It also sets the stage for the subsequent encounter with the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-30), further highlighting the varying responses to Jesus' call for radical discipleship and the nature of true greatness in the Kingdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Jewish society, children, especially young ones, often held a lower social status and were not typically seen as significant participants in religious or public life. They were considered vulnerable and dependent, often viewed as property or extensions of the family rather than individuals with inherent spiritual value. However, it was a common and respected custom for parents to bring their children to revered rabbis or spiritual leaders to receive a blessing, often through the laying on of hands and prayer. This act was believed to impart divine favor, protection, and wisdom upon the child. The disciples' rebuke, therefore, might stem from a combination of societal norms regarding children's low status, a desire to protect Jesus from perceived trivial interruptions, or a misunderstanding of what truly constituted important ministry in the eyes of their Master.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 19:13 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Matthew's Gospel. Firstly, it underscores **Jesus' radical inclusivity and compassion**, demonstrating His willingness to engage with and bless those often marginalized or overlooked by society, a theme echoed in His ministry to the sick, the poor, and the outcasts (e.g., [Matthew 9:10-13](/matthew/9-10-13 "Matthew 9:10-13 - Jesus Eats with Sinners")). Secondly, it highlights **the inherent value of children in God's eyes and the Kingdom of Heaven**. This is a recurring motif, powerfully articulated by Jesus in [Matthew 18:1-5](/matthew/18-1-5 "Matthew 18:1-5 - Humility and Children in the Kingdom"), where He uses a child as an example of humility necessary for Kingdom entry. Finally, the disciples' reaction reveals their **ongoing misunderstanding of Kingdom values**, particularly the importance of humility, service, and welcoming the vulnerable, a lesson they repeatedly struggled with throughout Jesus' ministry (e.g., [Matthew 20:20-28](/matthew/20-20-28 "Matthew 20:20-28 - The Request of James and John")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **brought (Greek, _prosphérō'_):** This word (G4374) means "to bear towards, i.e., lead to, tender (especially to God), treat." It conveys the intentional act of presenting or offering something or someone. Here, it emphasizes the parents' proactive and hopeful action of bringing their children directly to Jesus, presenting them for His divine touch and prayer.
* **little children (Greek, _paidíon'_):** This term (G3813) is a neuter diminutive of the word for "child" (país). It specifically refers to young children, often infants or toddlers, emphasizing their smallness, vulnerability, and complete dependence. The use of this diminutive highlights the tender age and helplessness of those being brought to Jesus, making the disciples' rebuke all the more striking.
* **rebuked (Greek, _epitimáō'_):** This verb (G2008) means "to tax upon, i.e., censure or admonish; by implication, forbid." It signifies a strong, authoritative disapproval or a stern warning, often with the intent to stop an action. The disciples' use of this word indicates their forceful attempt to prevent the children and their parents from approaching Jesus, underscoring their belief that this interaction was inappropriate or a waste of Jesus' time.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then were there brought unto him little children":** This opening clause sets the scene, indicating a specific moment in Jesus' itinerant ministry. The passive voice ("were there brought") highlights the agency of the parents or guardians who took the initiative to bring these vulnerable young ones to Jesus. The term "little children" emphasizes their tender age and dependence, making their desire for Jesus' touch particularly poignant.
* **"that he should put his hands on them, and pray":** This clause reveals the specific purpose for which the children were brought. The "laying on of hands" was a common practice in Jewish culture, signifying a transfer of blessing, healing, or spiritual authority. It was an intimate and personal gesture. Coupled with "and pray," it indicates a desire for Jesus to invoke divine favor and protection over the children, a deeply spiritual act sought from a revered teacher.
* **"and the disciples rebuked them":** This final clause introduces the conflict and the stark contrast in perspective. The conjunction "and" (G1161, _dé_) often introduces a contrast or a new development. The disciples, acting as gatekeepers, sternly "rebuked" (G2008, _epitimáō_) the parents, attempting to deter them. Their action reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of Jesus' mission and the nature of the Kingdom, prioritizing order or perceived importance over compassion and accessibility.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs **Contrast** as a primary literary device, sharply juxtaposing the welcoming nature of Jesus (implied by the parents' desire to bring children to Him) with the exclusionary attitude of His disciples. This contrast highlights the disciples' spiritual immaturity and their failure to grasp the radical inclusivity of the Kingdom of God. There is also a subtle **Irony** at play: those closest to Jesus, who should be facilitating access to Him, are instead hindering it, while the "unimportant" children and their parents intuitively seek Him out. Furthermore, the act of **Symbolism** is present in the "laying on of hands," which represents the imparting of blessing, spiritual power, and personal connection, making the disciples' attempt to prevent this act even more significant.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 19:13 is a powerful theological statement about the nature of God's Kingdom and the character of Jesus. It underscores that access to God's blessing is not predicated on age, social status, or intellectual prowess, but on humility and dependence, qualities inherently present in young children. The disciples' error serves as a perpetual warning against spiritual elitism or gatekeeping that would hinder anyone, especially the vulnerable, from approaching Christ. This passage affirms God's profound care for the young and the marginalized, demonstrating that true greatness in the Kingdom is found not in power or prestige, but in welcoming and serving the "least of these." It challenges believers to cultivate a heart that mirrors Jesus' expansive love and accessibility.

* [Mark 10:13-16](/mark/10-13-16 "Mark 10:13-16 - Jesus Blesses the Children")
* [Luke 18:15-17](/luke/18-15-17 "Luke 18:15-17 - Children and the Kingdom of God")
* [Matthew 18:1-5](/matthew/18-1-5 "Matthew 18:1-5 - Humility Like a Child")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This brief encounter in Matthew 19:13 holds profound implications for believers today, challenging us to examine our own attitudes and practices. It calls us to cultivate a welcoming spirit, ensuring that our communities of faith are places where all, especially the vulnerable, the young, and the marginalized, feel invited and valued, not rebuked or overlooked. We are reminded that children are not merely the church of tomorrow, but vital, present members of God's family, deserving of our prayers, blessings, and dedicated spiritual nurturing. The disciples' mistake serves as a potent warning against spiritual pride or self-importance that might inadvertently create barriers to Christ. True spiritual maturity is characterized by humility, accessibility, and a heart that prioritizes the well-being and spiritual growth of others, particularly those who might seem "insignificant" by worldly standards. We are called to embody the very spirit of Jesus, who always made Himself available to those who sought Him, affirming their worth and extending His boundless grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, or my church community, inadvertently "rebuke" or create barriers for certain individuals from coming to Jesus or feeling fully welcomed?**
* **How can I better value and intentionally minister to the children and vulnerable populations within my sphere of influence?**
* **What lessons can I learn from the humility and dependence of a child that are essential for my own spiritual growth and entry into the Kingdom of God?**
* **Am I more concerned with maintaining order or my own comfort than with extending radical welcome and compassion, as Jesus did?**

### FAQ

**Why did the disciples rebuke the children and their parents?**

Answer: The disciples likely rebuked the parents and children for several reasons, stemming from a misunderstanding of Jesus' mission and the prevailing cultural norms. In ancient society, children often held a lower status and were not typically seen as worthy of a rabbi's valuable time. The disciples may have believed they were protecting Jesus from a trivial interruption, preserving His dignity, or ensuring He had time for more "important" matters like theological debates with the Pharisees or teaching His adult followers. Their actions reflect a common human tendency to prioritize perceived efficiency or status over radical compassion and accessibility, a lesson Jesus frequently had to teach them, as seen in passages like [Matthew 18:1-5](/matthew/18-1-5 "Matthew 18:1-5 - Humility and Children").

**What is the significance of Jesus "laying His hands" on the children?**

Answer: The "laying on of hands" was a significant practice in Jewish culture, carrying multiple meanings. In this context, it primarily symbolized the imparting of a blessing, spiritual favor, or protection. It was an intimate, personal gesture that conveyed a transfer of divine grace and a deep connection between the one blessing and the one being blessed. It was also associated with prayer, healing, and commissioning. By seeking Jesus to lay His hands on their children, the parents desired a direct, tangible expression of His divine power and blessing upon their young lives, believing He could impart something good and lasting. This act underscores Jesus' personal engagement and the power of His touch to convey grace.

**How does this passage inform the church's view and treatment of children today?**

Answer: Matthew 19:13, especially when read in conjunction with Jesus' subsequent teaching in [Matthew 19:14](/matthew/19-14 "Matthew 19:14 - Let the Little Children Come"), profoundly shapes the church's understanding of children. It affirms their inherent value in God's eyes, not as future members, but as vital participants in the Kingdom of God *now*. The passage calls the church to actively welcome, protect, and nurture children, ensuring they have unhindered access to Christ and spiritual formation. It challenges any tendency to marginalize or overlook children in favor of adult-centric ministries. Instead, it encourages creating environments where children are blessed, taught, and seen as examples of the humility and dependence necessary for all believers to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 19:13 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies the welcoming heart of God. He is the divine Shepherd who does not turn away the vulnerable but actively seeks them out, demonstrating that His Kingdom is uniquely for those who recognize their need and approach Him with childlike faith and dependence. Unlike the disciples who sought to restrict access, Jesus consistently opened the way, declaring that [He came not to call the righteous, but sinners](/matthew/9-13 "Matthew 9:13 - Jesus Calls Sinners"). His entire ministry was an invitation to the marginalized, the sick, and the "little ones" of society, culminating in His ultimate act of self-giving love on the cross. Through His sacrifice, Jesus became the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), providing the sole means by which anyone, regardless of age or status, can truly come to God. He is the [Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd"), ensuring that none who come to Him will ever be cast out. Thus, this scene with the children is a beautiful microcosm of the Gospel itself: an open invitation from Christ, met by human resistance, but ultimately overcome by His boundless grace and welcoming embrace for all who draw near in humble faith.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 10:13

¶ And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and [his] disciples rebuked those that brought [them].

Mark 10:16

And he took them up in his arms, put [his] hands upon them, and blessed them.

Luke 18:15

¶ And they brought unto him also infants, that he would touch them: but when [his] disciples saw [it], they rebuked them.

Luke 18:17

Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.

Matthew 18:2

And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,

Matthew 18:5

And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

Acts 2:39

For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, [even] as many as the Lord our God shall call.