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The topic of children and their place in heaven is one that has intrigued theologians and believers throughout the history of Christianity. The Bible provides several insights into the nature of children and their relationship with the kingdom of heaven, emphasizing their innocence, humility, and the special regard in which they are held by God.
Biblical References:1.
Innocence and Humility: In the Gospels, Jesus highlights the qualities of children as essential for entering the kingdom of heaven. In
Matthew 18:3 , Jesus states, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." This verse underscores the importance of childlike humility and trust as prerequisites for heavenly citizenship. The innocence and purity of children are often seen as a model for believers to emulate.
2.
Jesus' Love for Children: Jesus' affection and concern for children are evident in several passages. In
Mark 10:14 , Jesus says, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." This declaration not only affirms the value of children in the eyes of God but also suggests that they have a special place in His kingdom. Jesus' welcoming attitude towards children serves as a reminder of their inherent worth and the divine love extended to them.
3.
Protection and Care: The Bible also speaks to the protection and care that God provides for children. In
Matthew 18:10 , Jesus warns, "See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of My Father in heaven." This passage suggests that children are under the watchful care of angels, indicating their precious status before God.
4.
Salvation and Accountability: The question of the salvation of children, particularly those who die in infancy or before reaching an age of accountability, is a topic of theological discussion. While the Bible does not explicitly address the fate of such children, many Christians believe in God's mercy and justice, trusting that He will act in accordance with His loving nature. The concept of an "age of accountability" is often inferred from passages that emphasize personal responsibility and the ability to discern right from wrong.
5.
Symbolism of Children: Children are frequently used as symbols of purity and new beginnings in Scripture. In
Isaiah 11:6 , the imagery of a child leading in a peaceful kingdom is part of a prophetic vision: "The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and young lion and fattened calf together; and a little child will lead them." This vision of harmony and innocence reflects the transformative power of God's kingdom.
Theological Implications:The biblical portrayal of children and their connection to heaven carries significant theological implications. It emphasizes the virtues of humility, trust, and purity as essential qualities for believers. The special regard for children in Scripture serves as a reminder of God's love and care for the most vulnerable and innocent among us. Additionally, the assurance of God's justice and mercy provides comfort to those who mourn the loss of young ones, trusting in His perfect will and compassion.
In summary, the Bible presents children as exemplars of the qualities necessary for entering the kingdom of heaven, highlighting their innocence, humility, and the divine love that surrounds them. These themes resonate deeply within the Christian faith, offering insights into the nature of God's kingdom and the value He places on the least among us.
Topical Bible Verses
John 14:2-3In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
Topicalbible.org1 Corinthians 2:9
But as it is written, Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love him.
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2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
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Romans 6:23
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
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Psalm 51:5
Behold, I was shaped in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
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Ezekiel 18:20
The soul that sins, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be on him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be on him.
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Library
Children inHeaven.
... MOURNING AND CONSOLATION. 585. "Children inHeaven. 585. 7s. & 6s.
M. Anonymous.Children inHeaven. 1 In the broad fields...
M. Anonymous.Children inHeaven.
... VIII. VARIOUS OCCASIONS. 413. 7 & 6s. M. Anonymous.Children inHeaven.
1 In the broad fields ofheaven," In the immortal bowers...
Heaven's NurseChildren
...Heaven's NurseChildren. A Sermon (No.1021). Delivered by. CH SPURGEON,.
At the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington. "I taught Ephraim...
Innocents Day Except Ye be Converted, and Become as Little...
... Innocents Day Except ye be converted, and become as littlechildren, ye
shall not enter into the kingdom ofHeaven. Except ye be...
The Heirs ofHeaven and Earth.
... them that the way men thought for themselves and theirchildren was not the way
God thought for himself and hischildren; that the kingdom ofheaven was founded...
The Mission of LittleChildren
... his disciples and said, "Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become
as littlechildren, ye shall not enter into the kingdom ofheaven." Thus did...
Hymns for Christian Devotion
... Death of an Infant. 583. -- The Same. 584. -- Death of a Child. 585. --Children
inHeaven. 586. -- Death of a Young Girl. 587. -- Dirge for an Infant. 588....
Thoughts Upon Christian Education.
... this great Duty, when it is conscienciously performed, this is the best means that
Parents can use, whereby to breed up theirChildren forHeaven, to make them...
Book of Hymns for Public and Private Devotion
... 412. 7s. M. Anonymous. Funeral Hymn of a Child. 413. 7 & 6s. M. Anonymous.Children
inHeaven. 414. 8 & 7s. M. Pierpont. For a Charitable Occasion. 415....
After this Manner Pray;' or the Model Prayer.
... Thechildren of the Father are here in the enemy's territory, where the
kingdom, which is inheaven, is not yet fully manifested....
Resources
What does it mean that Jesus loves the little children? | GotQuestions.orgHow should Christians discipline their children? What does the Bible say? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about disobedient children? | GotQuestions.orgChildren: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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