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.

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}.

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.

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.

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

Commentary

Context

Matthew 19:13 is a brief but significant interlude in Jesus' ministry, immediately following a discussion about marriage and divorce and preceding the encounter with the rich young ruler. It portrays a moment where Jesus' compassion and inclusive nature are contrasted with the disciples' more restrictive views. The custom of bringing children to a revered rabbi or spiritual leader for a blessing, often involving the laying on of hands and prayer, was common in Jewish culture, reflecting a desire for divine favor upon the young lives.

Key Themes

  • Jesus' Welcoming Nature: Despite His weighty discussions and demanding schedule, Jesus was always accessible, especially to those often overlooked. This verse highlights His boundless compassion and willingness to engage with everyone, regardless of age or social standing.
  • The Value of Children: The actions of the parents and Jesus' subsequent response (in the following verses, Matthew 19:14) powerfully affirm the inherent worth of children in God's eyes. They are not a distraction but recipients of divine blessing.
  • Disciples' Misunderstanding: The disciples' rebuke reveals their limited understanding at this stage. They likely thought they were protecting Jesus from interruption, perhaps viewing children as insignificant or believing Jesus was too important for such a task. This contrasts sharply with Jesus' own perspective, as also seen in His teaching about becoming like little children to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "little children" used here is paidia (παιδία), which refers to young children, often infants or toddlers, emphasizing their vulnerability and dependence. The term "rebuked" (ἐπετίμησαν - epetimēsan) indicates a strong, authoritative disapproval, suggesting the disciples were quite firm in their attempt to turn the people away. This highlights the stark difference between their rigid approach and Jesus' gentle invitation.

Related Scriptures

This event is also recorded in the other Synoptic Gospels, emphasizing its importance in the narrative of Jesus' life and teachings (Mark 10:13 and Luke 18:15). Jesus' consistent affirmation of children and the humility they represent is a recurring theme, notably in His teaching in Matthew 18:1-5, where He places a child in the midst of His disciples as an example of true greatness in the Kingdom of God.

Practical Application

Matthew 19:13 serves as a timeless reminder for believers and the church today:

  • Welcome All: We are called to create environments where all, especially the vulnerable and seemingly "insignificant," feel welcome and have unhindered access to Christ's love and blessing.
  • Value the Young: Children are not merely the church of tomorrow; they are vital members of the community of faith today, deserving of prayer, blessing, and spiritual nurturing.
  • Embrace Humility: The disciples' error reminds us to guard against spiritual pride or self-importance that might inadvertently hinder others from coming to Jesus. True spiritual maturity involves an open heart, ready to serve and bless all, mirroring the humility and dependence of a child.
This verse encourages us to embody the very spirit of Jesus, who invites all to come to Him, promising rest and blessing, a theme echoed in Matthew 11:28.

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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.
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