What Jesus Warns About Harming Children

When it comes to children, Jesus’ teachings are clear and firm.

He cherished children, emphasizing their innocence and importance in the Kingdom of God.

Let’s delve into what Jesus specifically warns about harming children and why these warnings are so crucial.

The Value of Children in Jesus’ Eyes

Children hold a special place in Jesus’ heart.

In the Gospels, Jesus often highlights their purity and how adults should emulate their humility and openness.

Matthew 18:3:

“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”

Mark 10:14:

“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”

Jesus uses these verses to illustrate that the qualities of children—innocence, trust, and humility—are vital for anyone seeking to enter God’s Kingdom.

But what does Jesus say about those who harm children?

A Strong Warning Against Harm

One of the most striking warnings Jesus gives is against causing harm to children.

This warning is both severe and direct.

The Millstone Warning

In Matthew 18:6, Jesus states: “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.”

This metaphor is powerful and severe.

A millstone was a massive stone used for grinding grain, and drowning was seen as a terrifying death.

Jesus’ use of this imagery underscores the gravity of the sin of leading children astray or causing them harm.

Spiritual and Moral Guidance

Jesus isn’t just talking about physical harm.

Leading children into sin, neglecting their spiritual and moral education, or setting a bad example are also ways of causing harm.

Ensuring that children grow up in a safe, loving, and morally sound environment is paramount.

The Innocence of Children

Children are often seen as the embodiment of innocence.

They’re trusting, honest, and pure-hearted.

Jesus uses children as a symbol of the pure faith and innocence needed to enter the Kingdom of God.

Protecting Innocence

In a world that can be harsh and corrupt, protecting the innocence of children is a moral imperative.

Children are impressionable, and the experiences they have in their formative years shape their understanding of the world and their place in it.

Modern Implications of Jesus’ Teachings

Jesus’ warnings about harming children have profound implications for modern society.

They call for action in various aspects of life to ensure children’s safety and well-being.

Parenting

Parents are the first line of defense in safeguarding their children.

This means providing:

#1. Love and Support:

Children need a nurturing environment where they feel loved and valued.

#2. Education:

Teaching them right from wrong, instilling moral values, and guiding them spiritually.

#3. Protection:

Keeping them safe from physical harm, abuse, and negative influences.

Society and Community

The responsibility doesn’t rest solely on parents.

Society and communities also play a critical role.

#1. Education Systems:

Schools should be safe havens where children can learn without fear.

#2. Child Protection Laws:

Enforcing laws that protect children from abuse and exploitation is crucial.

#3. Community Support:

Communities should offer support systems for children and families in need.

Addressing Harmful Behaviors

It’s essential to recognize and address behaviors and practices that can harm children.

This includes:

#1. Abuse:

Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse must be eradicated.

There should be zero tolerance for any form of abuse against children.

#2. Neglect:

Providing for the basic needs of children—food, shelter, education, and emotional support—is fundamental.

#3. Exploitation:

Child labor, trafficking, and exploitation in any form should be vigorously opposed and punished.

The Role of the Church

The church has a significant role in protecting and nurturing children.

It should be a place where children feel safe and loved, and where their spiritual education is prioritized.

#1. Sunday School Programs:

These programs can teach children about Jesus’ love and His teachings.

#2. Counseling and Support:

Offering support for families and children in distress.

#3. Advocacy:

Advocating for policies and practices that protect children at all levels of society.

Taking Jesus’ Warning Seriously

Taking Jesus’ warning about harming children seriously means actively working to create environments where children can thrive.

It’s about:

#1. Being Vigilant:

Watching out for signs of abuse or neglect.

#2. Educating:

Teaching children about their worth and how to stay safe.

#3. Acting:

Taking decisive action when a child is in danger.

Conclusion

Jesus’ teachings on children are clear: they are precious and must be protected.

His stark warning against causing harm to children highlights the severity of such actions.

In today’s world, this means creating safe, nurturing environments where children can grow in love and faith.

By following Jesus’ example, we can ensure that the innocence and purity of children are preserved, helping them to flourish and become the individuals God intended them to be.

Remember, protecting children isn’t just a duty—it’s a sacred responsibility.

FAQs About Jesus’ Warnings on Harming Children

1. What does Jesus say about harming children?

Jesus warns very strongly against harming children.

In Matthew 18:6, He says that it would be better for someone to have a large millstone hung around their neck and be drowned in the sea than to cause a child to stumble.

This shows the seriousness with which He views any harm done to children.

2. Why are children so important in Jesus’ teachings?

Children are important in Jesus’ teachings because they embody qualities like innocence, humility, and trust.

Jesus often uses children as examples to illustrate the kind of faith and purity needed to enter the Kingdom of God, as seen in Matthew 18:3 and Mark 10:14.

3. What kind of harm is Jesus referring to?

Jesus’ warning encompasses all forms of harm, including physical, emotional, and spiritual.

This includes abuse, neglect, leading children into sin, and failing to provide moral and spiritual guidance.

4. How can parents protect their children according to Jesus’ teachings?

Parents can protect their children by:

Providing a loving and supportive environment.
Teaching them moral and spiritual values.
Ensuring their physical safety and shielding them from harmful influences.

5. What role does society play in protecting children?

Society plays a crucial role in protecting children by:

Implementing and enforcing child protection laws.
Providing safe and nurturing educational environments.
Supporting families and children in need through community programs.

6. What actions can communities take to safeguard children?

Communities can:

Offer educational and support programs for parents and children.
Create safe spaces for children to play and learn.
Advocate for stronger child protection laws and policies.

7. How does the church contribute to the protection of children?

The church contributes by:

Providing spiritual education through Sunday school programs.
Offering counseling and support for families and children.
Advocating for child protection within the community and society.

8. What should you do if you suspect a child is being harmed?

If you suspect a child is being harmed, it’s important to act immediately.

Report your concerns to the appropriate authorities, such as child protective services or the police.

Ensuring the child’s safety should be the top priority.

9. How can we teach children about their worth and safety?

We can teach children about their worth and safety by:

Reinforcing their value and importance regularly.
Educating them on their rights and what constitutes inappropriate behavior.
Encouraging open communication and ensuring they know they can trust you with their concerns.

10. Why is it essential to preserve the innocence of children?

Preserving the innocence of children is essential because it allows them to develop in a healthy, trusting, and secure environment.

Their formative years shape their understanding of the world, their self-worth, and their future behavior.

By addressing these FAQs, we aim to clarify the importance of Jesus’ teachings on protecting children and provide practical steps to ensure their safety and well-being.