Luke 18:16 (KJV)

What does Luke 18:16 mean?

Luke 18:16 shows Jesus inviting little children to come to him and telling others not to stop them, saying that the kingdom of God belongs to people like these children. Jesus makes it clear that children are welcome in his presence and that their qualities are important for understanding God’s kingdom.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his disciples and those around him after they tried to prevent children from approaching him. By calling the children over and making this statement, Jesus challenges the social norms of his time, where children were often seen as unimportant. He highlights that the kingdom of God is open to those who are humble and trusting, like children.

The Greek behind Luke 18:16

• παιδία (paidia): This word means "children," specifically young children. The use of this word emphasizes the age and vulnerability of those Jesus welcomes, underscoring their dependence and openness.
• ἀφίετε (aphiete): Translated "suffer" in the KJV, this word means "allow" or "let." Jesus is not just passively permitting the children but actively instructing others to make space for them.
• τοιούτων (toioutōn): This word means "such as these" or "of such kind." Jesus is saying that the kingdom of God belongs to people who are like these children, not just to children themselves.

Why Luke 18:16 matters

• Luke 18:16 corrects the idea that only adults or those with status are important to Jesus, showing that even the least in society have a place with him.
• The verse emphasizes humility, openness, and trust—qualities often seen in children—as essential for anyone who wants to be part of God’s kingdom.
• This moment connects to the wider passage, where Jesus often reverses expectations about who is valued in God’s eyes, highlighting the upside-down nature of the kingdom he proclaims.