Initiate

A video introduction using illustrations, personal stories, metaphors, or active learning examples to begin the discussion.

Interact

After the video, prompts are supplied for thinking and sharing with others personal perception and experience. This opening activity prompts participants to think about and relate to the topic, and to share with others. 

The world offers countless activities, services, and products designed specifically for children, from theme parks and educational programs to toys and entertainment. Let’s brainstorm and provide examples for categories below that are specifically created "just for kids."

Kid-sized Kid-Safe Kid-Friendly Kid-Test/Approved Kid-proof

Explore the story to uncover a difficult lesson learned by the disciples and gain insights into Christ's priorities.

Insight

The Bible discussion begins with a careful reading of the whole passage, either from your own Bibles, or from the provided images below.

Then participants are to ask:

1. What is going on in this passage of Scripture?
2. What are the key words and phrases? Highlight them.
3. Why do you think this passage is included in the Bible?
4. What does it contribute to our “knowing Christ” and “living in Christ”?

Read Mark 10:13-16:

The Little Children and Jesus

13 People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 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. 15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.

Download PDF of Mark 10:13-16

Sometimes, our impulsive decisions or mistakes become valuable lessons. Can you recall a time when a mistake taught you something important? The disciples made such a mistake when they stopped children from coming to Jesus. While their reasons are unclear, their actions provoked a strong reaction from Jesus, who became “indignant”—grieved and irritated by their behavior. It’s as if He was saying, “This is beneath us; we’re better than this.”

Jesus’ response highlights how vital it is to welcome others, especially children, into His presence. “Let them come” and “don’t stop them” are simple yet powerful instructions for creating spaces where people can encounter Jesus. He even warns of the seriousness of leading children away from Him, showing how much their faith matters.

Children coming to Jesus is significant but so is how they receive the kingdom—with trust and openness. Do we approach Him the same way? The blessing Jesus gave the children is meaningful—what does it mean for us? In Matthew 18:3, adds the word “change” in the comment, stating: "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven."