Embracing Child-like Faith in God's Kingdom

 

Summary

In our exploration of Luke 18:15-17, we delve into the profound simplicity and depth of Jesus' teaching on receiving the kingdom of God like a child. This passage, though brief, carries significant weight as it outlines the criteria for entering God's kingdom. Jesus' invitation to let the little children come to Him is not just a call to welcome the young but a profound statement about the nature of faith and trust required to enter His kingdom.

Reflecting on the historical context of the Protestant Reformation, we see parallels in the struggle for understanding and authority in matters of faith. The Reformation was not just about justification by faith alone but also about the authority of Scripture versus church tradition. Luther's stand at the Diet of Worms, where he refused to recant unless convinced by Scripture, underscores the importance of personal conviction and the authority of God's Word. This historical backdrop enriches our understanding of Jesus' teaching, emphasizing that faith is not about blind adherence to tradition but a personal, trusting relationship with God.

Jesus' call to receive the kingdom like a child challenges us to examine our faith. A child-like faith is not about ignorance or simplicity but about trust and dependence. Children trust implicitly, not because they understand everything, but because they rely on the authority and love of their parents. Similarly, our faith should be marked by a deep trust in God's character and promises, even when we don't fully understand His ways.

This passage also serves as a reminder of the importance of humility. Just as children are dependent and trusting, we are called to humble ourselves before God, recognizing our need for His grace and guidance. This humility is not about self-deprecation but about acknowledging our limitations and God's sovereignty.

In essence, entering the kingdom of God requires a faith that is both simple and profound, marked by trust, humility, and a willingness to be led by God. As we reflect on this passage, may we strive to cultivate a faith that mirrors the trust and dependence of a child, fully confident in the love and authority of our Heavenly Father.

Key Takeaways:

1. Child-like Faith and Trust: Embracing a child-like faith means trusting God implicitly, much like a child trusts a parent. This trust is not blind but rooted in the understanding of God's unchanging character and promises. It challenges us to let go of our need for control and to rely on God's wisdom and guidance. [25:38]

2. Authority of Scripture: The historical context of the Reformation highlights the importance of Scripture as the ultimate authority in matters of faith. Just as Luther stood firm on the authority of God's Word, we are called to ground our beliefs and actions in Scripture, allowing it to shape our understanding and guide our lives. [06:15]

3. Humility in Faith: Jesus' teaching emphasizes the need for humility in our approach to God. Like children, we must recognize our dependence on Him and approach Him with a humble heart, acknowledging our need for His grace and guidance. This humility opens the door to deeper spiritual growth and understanding. [18:10]

4. The Role of Tradition: While tradition can enrich our faith, it should never overshadow the authority of Scripture. The Reformation reminds us to evaluate traditions in light of God's Word, ensuring that our faith is rooted in biblical truth rather than human constructs. [11:42]

5. Preparation for Worship: True worship involves preparation and reverence, recognizing the holiness of God. As we approach God, we are called to prepare our hearts and minds, coming before Him with a sense of awe and readiness to receive His Word and presence. [31:06]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:22] - Reading of Luke 18:15-17
- [01:08] - Importance of Jesus' Words
- [01:58] - Historical Context: The Reformation
- [02:50] - Justification by Faith Alone
- [04:36] - The Question of Authority
- [06:15] - Luther's Stand on Scripture
- [07:06] - The Counter-Reformation
- [09:24] - The Council of Trent
- [11:04] - Authority of Scripture vs. Tradition
- [13:25] - Private Interpretation of the Bible
- [14:56] - Augustine's Influence
- [16:42] - Responsibility of Pastors and Congregation
- [18:57] - Jesus' Invitation to Children
- [21:06] - Child-like Faith and Trust
- [25:38] - Trusting God Implicitly
- [31:06] - Preparation for Worship

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Luke 18:15-17

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Observation Questions:

1. What was the reaction of the disciples when people brought infants to Jesus, and how did Jesus respond to them? [19:37]

2. According to the sermon, what are the two main issues that were at the heart of the Protestant Reformation? [02:50]

3. How does the sermon describe the difference between a child-like faith and a childish faith? [22:35]

4. What does the sermon suggest about the role of tradition in relation to the authority of Scripture? [11:04]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does Jesus' invitation to let the little children come to Him illustrate the nature of faith required to enter the kingdom of God? [21:06]

2. In what ways does the historical context of the Reformation enhance our understanding of Jesus' teaching on faith and authority? [04:36]

3. How does the sermon explain the concept of humility in faith, and why is it important for spiritual growth? [18:10]

4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between faith and understanding God's character and promises? [25:38]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your own faith journey. In what ways do you exhibit a child-like trust in God, and where might you struggle with this kind of trust? [25:38]

2. How can you ensure that your beliefs and actions are grounded in Scripture rather than tradition or personal preference? What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of the Bible? [11:42]

3. Consider a situation in your life where you need to exercise humility. How can acknowledging your limitations and God's sovereignty help you navigate this situation? [18:10]

4. Think about a time when you found it difficult to trust God's promises. What specific promise from Scripture can you hold onto to strengthen your faith in that area? [27:43]

5. How can you prepare your heart and mind for worship in a way that reflects reverence and readiness to receive God's Word? What practical steps can you take before attending a worship service? [31:06]

6. Identify a tradition or practice in your faith community. How can you evaluate its alignment with Scripture, and what conversations might you need to have to ensure it enriches rather than overshadows biblical truth? [11:42]

7. Reflect on a recent decision or action. How did your understanding of God's character influence your choice, and how can you continue to rely on His wisdom and guidance in future decisions? [25:38]

Devotional

Day 1: Trusting God Like a Child
Embracing a child-like faith means trusting God implicitly, much like a child trusts a parent. This trust is not blind but rooted in the understanding of God's unchanging character and promises. It challenges us to let go of our need for control and to rely on God's wisdom and guidance. Children trust implicitly, not because they understand everything, but because they rely on the authority and love of their parents. Similarly, our faith should be marked by a deep trust in God's character and promises, even when we don't fully understand His ways. [25:38]

"Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock." (Isaiah 26:4, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find it difficult to trust God completely? How can you begin to release control and trust Him more today?


Day 2: Scripture as Our Foundation
The historical context of the Reformation highlights the importance of Scripture as the ultimate authority in matters of faith. Just as Luther stood firm on the authority of God's Word, we are called to ground our beliefs and actions in Scripture, allowing it to shape our understanding and guide our lives. The Reformation was not just about justification by faith alone but also about the authority of Scripture versus church tradition. This historical backdrop enriches our understanding of Jesus' teaching, emphasizing that faith is not about blind adherence to tradition but a personal, trusting relationship with God. [06:15]

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:16, ESV)

Reflection: How can you incorporate more Scripture into your daily routine to ensure it remains the foundation of your faith and decisions?


Day 3: Humility Before God
Jesus' teaching emphasizes the need for humility in our approach to God. Like children, we must recognize our dependence on Him and approach Him with a humble heart, acknowledging our need for His grace and guidance. This humility is not about self-deprecation but about acknowledging our limitations and God's sovereignty. It opens the door to deeper spiritual growth and understanding, allowing us to be led by God in all aspects of our lives. [18:10]

"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you." (James 4:10, ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you practice humility in your relationship with God and others this week?


Day 4: Evaluating Tradition
While tradition can enrich our faith, it should never overshadow the authority of Scripture. The Reformation reminds us to evaluate traditions in light of God's Word, ensuring that our faith is rooted in biblical truth rather than human constructs. This requires discernment and a willingness to question practices that may not align with Scripture, always seeking to align our lives with God's truth. [11:42]

"See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ." (Colossians 2:8, ESV)

Reflection: Are there any traditions or practices in your life that need to be reevaluated in light of Scripture? How can you begin this process today?


Day 5: Preparing for Worship
True worship involves preparation and reverence, recognizing the holiness of God. As we approach God, we are called to prepare our hearts and minds, coming before Him with a sense of awe and readiness to receive His Word and presence. This preparation is not just about external actions but an internal posture of reverence and expectation, allowing us to fully engage in worship and experience God's presence. [31:06]

"Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water." (Hebrews 10:22, ESV)

Reflection: How can you intentionally prepare your heart and mind for worship this week, both individually and corporately?

Quotes

"Then they also brought infants to Him that He might touch them; but when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” Again, this is a very brief statement from our Lord but nevertheless, one that is exceedingly important as he sets before us necessary criteria for entering into his kingdom, criteria that we should not overlook or neglect in any way." [00:15:12]

"When Luther was defending his doctrine of sola fide before the magisterium of the Roman communion and was engaged in debates, for example in Leipzig, in Heidelberg and other places with the prelates and theologians of Rome. Constantly he was asked this question, 'Brother Luther, how can you believe this doctrine that is rejected by holy mother church? We look to our church history and we see that church councils and papal encyclicals all affirm a doctrine that you're denying.' You see here the issue was the question of authority, and even later on, when the final council came at -- not at Trent, but in Wittenberg at the Imperial Diet called by Charles V, when Luther was called to recant of his work, you remember what he said?" [00:29:00]

"Unless I am convinced by sacred scripture or by evident reason, I cannot recant because my conscience is held captive by the word of God, and to act against conscience is neither right nor safe. Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me.", and the Reformation was off and running. Now after the Protestant Reformation took place, the Roman Catholic Church didn't roll over and played dead and acquiesce or surrender to the dictates of the Protestant movement, but rather they brought forth what historians called the counter-Reformation, the response to the Reformation and the counter-Reformation in the 16th century was three-pronged that had three distinguishing aspects to it." [00:36:35]

"The third and surely, most important prong of the counter-Reformation, was the calling of an ecumenical council. In that ecumenical council meeting, bishops from all over the world to make decrees that would be definitive for the church, such as what happened at the Council of Nicea, what happened at the Council of Constantinopole, what happened at the Council of Chalcedon, what happened at First Vatican Council and Vatican Council 2 in most of your lifetime. This was an ecumenical council that was called and held in Trento, Italy, which is called the Council of Trent, and there, the church defined her doctrine in their view infallably for all time." [00:50:42]

"Let me read to you very briefly, I won't put you to sleep if you're not there already, very brief statement from the fourth session because I want you to get this. 'Furthermore,' the church wrote, 'to check unbridled spirits, it decrees that no one relying on his own judgment, shall in matters of faith and morals pertaining to the edification of Christian doctrine, distorting the holy scriptures in accordance with his own conceptions, presume to interpret them contrary to that sense which holy mother church to whom it belongs to judge of their true sense and interpretation has held and holds.', and so on, but you get idea." [00:41:34]

"Jesus called them to himself and he said, 'Let the little children come to me and do not forbid them. Do not hinder them. Don’t prevent them. Don’t get in their way. Let them come. Bring them to me.' This has radical implications for infant baptism but I'm not going to carry those out this morning. I'll save that for some other time, but this is what Jesus is saying, 'They want to come close to me and they want my blessing. The parents want me to put my hand on their head and pronounce a blessing upon them.' Jesus didn’t believe that he could place his hand on the little kid's head, and just by that save them." [00:20:00]

"Jesus believed justification by faith more than Luther did, but he did want these little infants set apart, where they were consecrated, where they would be in a place where they would grow up in the understanding and the nurture and the teaching of the things of God, but what gets me in this passage is this, 'Don’t forbid them for of such is the kingdom of God, and assuredly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it. Let them come. Gentlemen, I've been training you as my disciples but you haven't gotten it yet. These little ones belong to my kingdom. Those are like these little ones for such belong to the kingdom of God.'" [00:21:06]

"Dear friends, there's a huge difference between a child-like faith and a childish faith. The New Testament rebukes us when we want to stay as children. We were told to be babes in evil, not grown up sophisticated for adults only kind of sinners, but the sins that we have should be the minor sins that are associated with little babies and little children, not gross and horrendous sins that adults commit. The apostle says, 'Be babes in evil, but in understanding, be adults.' You can't be satisfied with milk. That's for infants, but as you grow into adulthood, you want to dig deeply into the word of God, to the meat of scripture and be nurtured by the meat of the word of God." [00:22:56]

"That's what it means to have a child-like faith. You don't trust me implicitly. You don't trust the church implicitly. You don't trust the government implicitly but you do trust God implicitly. This morning in our liturgy, when we had our confession of sin followed by our assurance of pardon, the minister read these words from 1 John, 'If we confess our sins, he's faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.' I love that verse and I hate that verse because when I was a young man, I had a guilty conscience about something and I talked to the minister and he took me to this text." [00:25:38]

"How do you feel now? I still feel pretty guilty. He says, 'Okay let me give you another verse.' I say okay. He gives me the same verse. How many times does God have to tell you that if you confess your sins to him, he will forgive them before you believe him? It's one thing, I've said this a thousand times, it's one thing to believe in God, but what Christianity's all about is believing God. It was the prophet Habakkuk who've said first that just shall live by faith or the righteous shall live by trust. Three times that verse is repeated in the New Testament with respect to our salvation, which means to be justified by faith means to be justified by trusting what God says." [00:27:03]

"That's the biggest problem we have in our lives. We don't believe what he says. We would prefer to sin than to obey him because we don't believe that if we obey him, we can be happy. Not once in the history of the human race has sin brought happiness. It's brought pleasure but never happiness. When God gives his law, it's not because he's a killjoy. It's because he loves us and he knows what is good for us because he does all things well and he's saying to us, 'Trust me. Trust me with your life. Trust me with your vocation. Trust me with your marriage. Trust me with your family.' He wants from his children 'fides implicitum,' an implicit trust." [00:28:15]

"True worship always involves preparation that you don't just come into the presence of God without some forethought of where you're going and what you're going to be doing there, and he goes back to the Old Testament where God calls Moses up to the mountain to receive the law and he says to the people before he goes, 'Consecrate a fast among the people. Have the people wash their clothes and prepare their souls, lest they come profanely and when they touch the mountain, they die.' God says a thousand times in the bible, 'Draw nigh on to me.' We're to come close to him. We're to approach him just like these little kids who came to Jesus." [00:31:06]

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Transcript
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