Problem fathers

Matthew 18:1-10; Ephesians 6:4

1. How did Jesus regard and relate to children?

Jesus says whoever humbles himself like a child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. "And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea."

See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For their angels in heaven always see the face of the Father in heaven.

Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

Mark 10:13-16

2. Why was Jesus indignant?

People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant.

He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.