Let the Children Come to Me

## 1. Jesus Sticks Up for Kids Read what happened in Matthew 19:13-15: > Then children were brought to him, that he lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people, but Jesus said, Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven. And he laid his hands on them and went away.

The disciples thought the children were in the way, but Jesus stopped them. Why do you think Jesus wanted the kids to come close? When do you feel like adults might forget that Jesus welcomes kids just as much as grown-ups?

## 2. Ask Instead of Worry The sermon said that kids trust their parents for food, clothes, and a place to sleep instead of worrying about bills or taxes. That trust is a picture of how we should trust God. What is one thing you are tempted to worry about this week? How can you hand it to God the same way you ask a parent for help?

## 3. The Greatest in the Kingdom Jesus said something that sounds backwards: adults need to become like children, not the other way around. Read Matthew 18:1-4: > At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, 'Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?' And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, 'Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'

What does it look like to be humble and dependent like a child? Why does God think that attitude is greater than being strong, smart, or popular?

## 4. Don't Block the Path Jesus said, 'Do not hinder them.' Sometimes people make church or prayer feel like a rule-heavy club that kids are too young to join. How can you encourage a friend or a younger sibling to come to Jesus instead of making them feel like they have to wait until they are older?

## 5. God Makes It Grow The sermon reminded us that some people plant seeds and some water them, but only God makes them grow. That means you do not have to be perfect or know everything before Jesus welcomes you. How does knowing that God is the one who grows your faith help you rest and trust him more?