Children and the Kingdom

Matt. 19:13–15; Luke 18:15–17

13 gThen they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for hof such is the kingdom of God. 15 Assuredly, I say to you, iwhoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will jby no means enter it.” 16 And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.

Rich Young Ruler

Matt. 19:16–22; Luke 18:18–23

17 kNow as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I ldo that I may inherit eternal life?”

18 So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, mGod. 19 You know the commandments: n‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear false witness,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother.’ ”

20 And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have okept from my youth.”

21 Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, psell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have qtreasure in heaven; and come, rtake up the cross, and follow Me.”

22 But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

Difficulty of Riches

Matt. 19:23–26; Luke 18:24–27

23 sThen Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” 24 And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is 2for those twho trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a urich man to enter the kingdom of God.”

26 And they were greatly astonished, saying among themselves, “Who then can be saved?”

27 But Jesus looked at them and said, “With men it is impossible, but not vwith God; for with God all things are possible.”