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Explanation for:
Matthew
19
:
14
But Jesus said to them: Suffer the little children, and forbid them not to come to me: for the kingdom of heaven is for such.
11
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Clement of Alexandria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a47f4d84651d9fafd55_Clement%20of%20Alexandria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":2,"exegesis-text":"Jesus invited the little ones to approach Him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:13-14). In His teachings, the Lord clarified this intention by stating, “Unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3). Here, He does not refer allegorically to the process of rebirth but encourages us to emulate the purity and simplicity characteristic of children. The prophetic Spirit also refers to us as children. He describes how they took branches from olive and palm trees and went to meet Him, proclaiming, “Hosanna to the son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord” (Matthew 21:9; John 12:13). This exclamation conveys the themes of light, glory, and humble supplication to the Lord, which is the essence of ‘Hosanna’ in translation. Through this prophetic reminder, Scripture appears to deliver a gentle admonition. Have you not read, “Out of the mouths of babes and infants you have established strength?” (Matthew 21:16; Psalm 8:3). As He encourages His disciples to stay attentive to Him as He is to the Father, He indicates that His departure is imminent, awakening a fervor in them to gather abundantly the fruits of the tree of truth, resulting in their abundant harvest during those moments. The Lord once again addresses His followers as children in the Gospel, saying, “Little children, yet a little while I am with you” (John 13:33). He contrasts the Kingdom of Heaven with children seated in the public squares, lamenting, “We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not weep,” adding similar expressions. This sentiment is echoed not just in the Gospel, but also by David, who proclaims, “Praise the Lord, O children; praise the name of the Lord” (Psalm 112:1). Moreover, the Lord states through Isaiah, “Here am I, and the children the Lord has given me” (Isaiah 8:18). Do you find it surprising to hear older individuals, particularly from the Gentiles, referred to as children by the Lord? It seems you may not fully grasp the nuances of the Attic dialect, in which lovely and vibrant young women, especially those of noble status, are addressed with this endearing and honorable term, even when they are girls. As long as they embody the beauty of childhood, they retain this flattering designation. When the Lord says, “Let the sheep be on my right” (Matthew 25:33), He refers to children as they possess simple hearts, for naturally, children are akin to lambs, not to men or adult sheep. He cherishes these lambs, valuing their innocence and straightforwardness, contrasting with the complexity of adult nature."},{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"He refers to \\"such\\" to emphasize that it is not the age of individuals that matters, but their attitudes. He assures a blessing for those who embody a comparable purity and straightforwardness. The apostle echoes this sentiment in his message: Beloved, do not be immature in understanding; rather, in regard to evil be like infants, but in your thinking be mature."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"To instill humility and dismantle worldly arrogance, He gathers the children, embraces them, and assures them of their place in the kingdom, as He had stated previously. Similarly, if we aspire to inherit eternal life, we must diligently strive to embody the virtue of humility. The essence of humility lies in merging simplicity with wisdom, which characterizes the angelic life. A child's soul is untouched by passion, oblivious to grievances, and rushes to embrace those who have wronged them, behaving as if no offense occurred. Even when a mother refrains from disciplining her child, the child continues to seek her affection and loves her above all else. Present a queen adorned with a crown, and the child will prefer the mother in worn clothing, eager for her presence rather than that of the regal figure. Children do not differentiate based on possession or wealth, but rather through love. They do not crave more than their necessities, and once satisfied, they will turn away from the breast. A child does not mourn the loss of material wealth as we do, nor do they find joy in fleeting possessions; they are not swayed by physical allure. This is why Christ proclaimed, “Of such is the kingdom of heaven,” urging us to engage freely as children do by nature.\\n\\nThe Pharisees, driven by cunning and arrogance in their actions, were rebuked by Him, who instructed His disciples to practice simplicity in all ranks of dignity. Indeed, nothing is a greater mockery to a man than authority and privilege. Meanwhile, Christ's disciples received great honors throughout creation; thus, the Savior cautioned them against embracing anything human and to not seek accolades from others or harbor pride before them. Although this may seem minor, it leads to numerous evils. Consequently, the Pharisees, who grew accustomed to pride from childhood, eventually stumbled into a pit of wrongdoing, seeking greetings, positions of prominence, and mediating power. These vices plunged them into a madness for glory, which ultimately drove them to wickedness. This is why they were condemned for tempting the Lord, whereas the children, devoid of such vices, were blessed. Let us resemble children, allowing our transgressions to be like those of infants.\\n\\nIt is impossible, I assert, to view heaven in any other light; every wicked individual is destined to fall into Gehenna. However, before facing Gehenna, we shall endure extreme suffering. Yet the Scripture states, “If you are evil, you shall receive evil, but if you are good, you shall be so for yourself and for your neighbor” (Proverbs 9:12). Recall that such was the case before: who was more malevolent than Saul, and who was more innocent and kind than David? Yet, who proved to be the stronger? Did David not have Saul at his mercy twice, choosing to spare his life when given the chance to strike? Did he not release Saul despite having him captured and in peril? Even though David had every reason to punish Saul for numerous offenses, he let him go unharmed. Saul relentlessly pursued David with his entire army, while David roamed with only a small band of followers, stripped of hope, yet it was the fugitive who overcame the king. This was accomplished because David relied on simplicity, while Saul was armed with malice.\\n\\nIs there anyone more wicked than Saul, who sought to kill the very commander who had led him through battles, won victories, and adorned him with accolades? Such is the nature of envy; it perpetually troubles good relations and surrounds the suffering with countless woes. The miserable Saul, until David had departed, did not voice such sorrowful words as, “I am greatly distressed; the Philistines are warring against me, and God has departed from me” (1 Sam. 28:15). Until David distanced himself, Saul remained safe and triumphant, benefiting from the glory derived from David’s leadership. David had no ambition to usurp the throne; he acted solely out of concern for Saul's welfare. This is evident from the subsequent events. Some may attribute David's loyalty to the principle of subordination, but after Saul cast David out of his kingdom, what compelled David to remain obedient? Was not every circumstance inclined toward vanquishing Saul? Had not Saul plotted against David multiple times? Was David not wronged? Did not David's promised kingship hang in the balance, and his life at risk as he wandered in fear? Yet David refused to stain his hands in blood. Upon finding Saul asleep, isolated amidst his soldiers, and urged on by many who believed this was God’s appointed moment, David silenced his accusers and spared Saul, allowing him to live and showing mercy as if he were a protector instead of an enemy.\\n\\nWhat can compare with such a spirit? What can rival such meekness? This can be discerned from the examples given, and our understanding of the saints’ virtues deepens when we reflect on our own failings. Therefore, I implore you to emulate their passion for righteousness. If you seek honor and engage in rivalries with your neighbors, pursue it earnestly, yet, in your quest for glory, cast aside treachery. For the silver-seeker often finds wealth intertwined with loss, just as the glory-seeker encounters disgrace. Let us thoughtfully examine both paths. In our disregard for Gehenna and indifference towards the kingdom of heaven, let us at least contemplate their present consequences. Tell me, who deserves ridicule? Is it not he who craves excessive praise from others? And who merits acclaim? Is it not the one who completely dismisses human accolades? Thus, when the love of vain glory is paired with scorn, the hollow man chasing fame cannot conceal himself, and he will undoubtedly face reproach; his pursuit of recognition will lead only to shame.\\n\\nMoreover, the proud, in their quest to fulfill their desires, often become slaves to the powerful, flatter them excessively, and endure a servitude worse than that of any purchased slave. Therefore, let us renounce these passions, avoiding punishment in this life and torment in the next. Let us cherish virtue and attain great blessings in this life before the kingdom of heaven. After death, we shall partake in eternal blessings, which we can all enjoy, through the grace and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory and dominion forever. Amen."},{"author-name":"Hilarius of Poitiers","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88cb92f12b3278598f946_Hilarius%20of%20Poitiers.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The children were brought forward, but obstacles were placed in their way. These children symbolize the Gentiles, to whom salvation is offered through faith and proclamation. However, since the primary mission was to redeem Israel, the disciples initially tried to keep the children from coming to Him. Their behavior is not driven solely by their own motives but instead reflects the future evangelization of the Gentiles. The Lord emphasizes that the little ones should not be turned away, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these; yet, the Gentiles were destined to receive grace and the gift of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands, when the law would come to an end."},{"author-name":"Epiphanius of Pavia","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":6,"exegesis-text":"Why did the disciples prevent the children from approaching? It was not due to any wrongdoing on their part but rather because the moment seemed inappropriate. They wished to avoid burdening the Lord with the throngs of people. Yet, He responded to them, saying: Let the little ones come to Me, and do not obstruct them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven. Children are innocent; they do not comprehend malice, nor do they retaliate harm for harm or act unjustly. They are unaware of lust, infidelity, and theft; they trust what they hear and love their parents wholeheartedly. Thus, dear friends, the Lord instructs us that we must emulate their purity through the grace of their nature, through reverence for God, by living righteously, and by loving the kingdom of heaven. Until we are free from all sin, akin to little children, we cannot approach the Savior."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"Christ, demonstrating that He is more acceptable to the Father than one who is devoid of sincerity, declares, “Let the children come to me, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” He did not specify “these,” but rather “such as these,” referring to those who are innocent, pure, and free from evil. Therefore, if Christians approach a teacher with the inquiries of children today, that teacher should not turn them away but welcome them."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"Mark indicated that He was even displeased with those who prevented Him from receiving the little ones. By welcoming children, He demonstrates His acceptance of the unlovable while simultaneously teaching the need to bring down arrogant pride and embrace the marginalized. He did not claim that children themselves represent the kingdom of heaven but rather those who emulate their humility. This topic is elaborated on in chapter 18 of Matthew."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"He Who came to carry all our weaknesses and chose to be born as a child now stands as the Guardian of vulnerable infancy and pure childhood. His desire was to demonstrate that even the youngest infants are welcomed into His Church through the Sacrament of Baptism, thus becoming heirs to His Kingdom, despite their tender age. He Himself possessed a perfectly innocent childlike spirit and took delight in gazing upon the little ones, seeing in them the reflection of His divine image. He found respite for His human spirit after engaging with the cunning and relentless adversaries, the Pharisees and scribes. The purity, trust, simplicity, sincerity, love, and selfless devotion of children brought joy to our Lord, prompting Him to hold them up as examples for His followers. By lovingly embracing and welcoming the little ones, He affirmed His stance, as St. Mark recounts (Mark 10:14), and countered the unwarranted envy of His disciples. Yet JESUS said to them, \\"Let the children come to Me; do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these.” The Lord had reiterated this instruction on multiple occasions, and now, when the disciples seemed to have forgotten the recent lesson (when the Lord had pointed to a child), He took this opportunity to reinforce His message: \\"Whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God as a child will never enter it.\\""},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Jesus responded to the mothers' requests despite the disciples' objections, declaring, \\"Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven\\" (Matthew 19:14). The Kingdom of Heaven is accessible to those who are innocent and pure like children. Earlier, Christ explained this to the disciples when they inquired about the greatest in the kingdom of heaven, insisting that anyone who does not welcome the kingdom of God as a child will not enter it (Mark 10:15). Do not prevent them from approaching Me. Childcare providers, make these words a constant reminder in your hearts and revisit them as you carry out your responsibilities. Ensure that you do not obstruct your children's path to Christ and stay vigilant against influences that may divert them. Recognize that you bear the duty of safeguarding this flock of Christ. However, mere non-interference is insufficient; you have a greater calling to lead your children toward Christ. Do not be discouraged by the presence of a law teacher among the children. While he instructs them in God's Law, you should embed this Law within their hearts and ensure they embody it. Teach them that true happiness in life arises only from selfless and forgiving love for one’s neighbors, and through your own example, demonstrate that life in Christ is the only fulfilling existence within the Kingdom of God, which also lays the foundation for entry into the Kingdom of Heaven. If you find yourself unable to guide your children to Christ due to skepticism or apathy regarding faith, consider a different path. Do not shoulder the weight of responsibility for their spiritual well-being, as it could lead to the disturbing realization that it would be preferable for you to have a millstone tied around your neck and be cast into the depths of the sea! (see Matthew 18:1-6)."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The kingdom of heaven can be characterized by virtues such as innocence, purity, and genuineness, as discussed in Matthew 18:3-6, 10, 14."},{"author-name":"Lopuchin A.P.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c891400ee1341634d2276d_Lopuchin%20A.P..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The apostles believed that the presence of mothers with young children was a distraction from the mission of Christ. However, the Lord swiftly corrected their misconception, instructing them, \\"Let the children come to Me, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.\\" He then welcomed the children and blessed them with His sacred hands, demonstrating to both His disciples and the crowd that \\"whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a child,\\" meaning with pure innocence and selflessness, \\"shall not enter therein.\\" In following the Lord’s example, the Church established by Him began to embrace children through the sacrament of baptism, without waiting until they reached adulthood."}]}
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