“Let the little children come to me, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” Mark 10:14
What is a disciple? A disciple is one who learns from another so even though children don’t understand everything, they can be taught about the kingdom of God. By learning about discipleship at a young age, children will grow to have a closer relationship with God and become better Christians as a result. It is our spiritual and not our physical age that determines our depth of faith in God.
“Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me.” Mark 9:37
Even though many may think that children can’t be disciples, it is not right to think that children can’t be Christians either. Our spiritual age can only grow within us if we are taught about the good news of God’s kingdom as though we are “disciples in training.” Children are the future to Christianity as they are the ones who will expand the kingdom of God through their faith and love towards their family.
“After a while it grows up and becomes the biggest of all plants” Mark 4:32
However, many people may also consider this as a true statement. Young children are often incapable of taking up the responsibility of becoming a good Christian or a good disciple, as they do not perceive enough knowledge about discipleship and the values of Christianity. Children can’t be expected to be willing enough to take up the responsibility of facing persecution anytime in their youthful lives for their faith.
“He must forget self, carry his cross, and follow me.” Mark 8:34
Children don’t lead an independent life and cannot take on board the heavy responsibilities. They may often be too young to understand the nature of discipleship and the parables taught to us through Jesus. Often, their faith in God cannot last as children can easily be grasped in Satan’s palms and the path lighted up by Jesus will soon fade away and be destroyed as they are an easy target for influential matters and temptation from Satan and his evil followers.
“You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal…Murder…Give false testimony…covet” Ten commandments
Many may also argue that Jesus taught us to act like a child with innocent and young hearts, however this does not mean that disciples should be children themselves.
Overall, I conclude to this argument that children should have the opportunity to become a devoted Christian and a loving disciple as it is God and Jesus who chooses the ones who will be part of their family in heaven with everlasting and harmonious life in love, peace and contentment. As a child, becoming a good Christian and a devoted disciple are the first step to everlasting life with God in heaven. To god and Jesus, we are all his children.
