“But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” – Matthew 19:14
Bible Verses About Not Molesting Children
Value of Children in God’s Eyes
As we gather to reflect upon the value of children, it’s vital to recognize how precious they are in God’s eyes. Children symbolize innocence and purity, and through their faith, they can teach us profound lessons about trust and love. The Bible emphasizes that we should cherish and protect our young ones, ensuring a safe environment where they can grow in wisdom and grace. By understanding their importance, we commit ourselves to safeguarding their well-being, resisting any temptation that would harm them.
Matthew 18:6
“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.” – Matthew 18:6
Mark 10:14
“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.” – Mark 10:14
Luke 17:2
“It would be better for them to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around their neck than to cause one of these little ones to stumble.” – Luke 17:2
Matthew 21:15-16
“But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and heard the children shouting in the temple courts, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” they were indignant. “Do you hear what these children are saying?” they asked him. “Yes,” replied Jesus, “have you never read, ‘From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise?’” – Matthew 21:15-16
John 1:12
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” – John 1:12
Protection of the Innocent
We are called to be protectors of the innocent. Children, in their vulnerability, need our love and guidance. God entrusts us with their care, serving as guardians who uphold their dignity and innocence. This sacred responsibility prompts us to create a safe environment so they can flourish. Our mission is to ensure that they are shielded from harm and nurtured in faith, allowing their spirits to soar as they grow in knowledge and love for God.
Psalm 82:3
“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” – Psalm 82:3
Proverbs 31:8-9
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” – Proverbs 31:8-9
Proverbs 14:31
“Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” – Proverbs 14:31
Isaiah 1:17
“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” – Isaiah 1:17
James 1:27
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” – James 1:27
The Call to Love and Care
Love and care are at the heart of our faith. Jesus teaches us that when we love and care for the little ones, we are also serving Him. Our attitudes and actions toward children reflect our relationship with God. We must approach our relationships with children through a lens of kindness, ensuring that they experience love rather than fear. In doing so, we create a supportive community where they feel safe and cherished.
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Galatians 5:14
“For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” – Galatians 5:14
Colossians 3:21
“Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” – Colossians 3:21
Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” – Ephesians 6:4
Luke 10:27
“He answered: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’ and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” – Luke 10:27
Consequences of Harmful Actions
As we contemplate the consequences of harmful actions, we must recognize that God holds us accountable for the way we treat the vulnerable among us. The Bible warns of serious repercussions for those who harm children or lead them astray. We are reminded to reflect on our actions and strive to uphold the values of compassion, love, and justice. Taking this call seriously ensures we stand in righteousness, promoting safety for our children.
Proverbs 11:21
“Be assured, an evil person will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered.” – Proverbs 11:21
Matthew 5:29-30
“If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.” – Matthew 5:29-30
Romans 14:10
“You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat.” – Romans 14:10
Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” – Galatians 6:7
Hebrews 10:30-31
“For we know him who said, ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ and again, ‘The Lord will judge his people.’ It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” – Hebrews 10:30-31
Creating Safe Environments
Creating safe environments is essential for the development of children. We should actively work towards homes, schools, and communities where every child can thrive without fear. God calls us to act decisively in ensuring safety and nurturing surroundings filled with encouragement and love. By investing our efforts in building these spaces, we fulfill our calling to protect the most vulnerable among us, reaffirming our commitment to God’s teachings.
Psalm 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” – Psalm 127:3
1 Peter 5:2-3
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” – 1 Peter 5:2-3
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Proverbs 22:6
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
John 10:11
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” – John 10:11
Redemption and Healing
Though we often face trials and challenges, the promise of redemption and healing stands firm in God’s love. This encompasses both those seeking forgiveness for their wrongdoings and children yearning for healing from the hurt they’ve experienced. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we are called to support one another on this journey, ensuring that every heart that is wounded finds solace in Jesus. Embracing redemption enables us to foster a culture of healing and hope.
Isaiah 61:1
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” – Isaiah 61:1
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Psalms 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalms 147:3
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the sacredness of children and our responsibility to protect them, we are reminded of the serious implications that come with our actions. Children hold a unique place in God’s heart and our society, deserving of respect, love, and safety. We have a duty to create nurturing environments where they can learn and grow in the light of God’s love.
Let us strive to uphold values that promote their well-being, embracing the role of protectors, nurturers, and mentors. We can seek justice for the vulnerable while fostering redemption and healing for those affected by harm. Through our efforts, we can build a safer world for children, reflecting the love of Christ in every action we take.
As we continue our faith journey, I encourage you to explore similar teachings in the Bible. Discover more about God’s guidance on protecting the vulnerable and fostering love in your community. One such passage is found in Deuteronomy 22:5. Dive deeper into Christ’s heart for children through Matthew 18:1-9.