But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

MATTHEW 19:14KJV
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Matthew 19:14 (KJV)

What does Matthew 19:14 mean?

Matthew 19:14 records Jesus telling his followers to allow children to come to him and not to prevent them, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to people like these children. Jesus is highlighting the value and place of children in God’s kingdom, showing they are welcome and important.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his disciples after they tried to stop people from bringing children to him. By saying, “for of such is the kingdom of heaven,” Jesus points out that the qualities found in children—such as humility, trust, and openness—are what characterize those who belong to God’s kingdom. This moment corrects the disciples’ thinking and shows that God’s kingdom is open to those who come with childlike hearts.

The Greek behind Matthew 19:14

  • The word “Suffer” (ἄφετε, aphete) in Greek means “allow” or “let.” Jesus is not talking about suffering but is telling the disciples to permit the children to come.
  • “Children” (παιδία, paidia) refers to young children, not just older kids or teenagers. This emphasizes how even the youngest are included in Jesus’ welcome.
  • The phrase “for of such” (γὰρ τῶν τοιούτων, gar tōn toioutōn) means “because the kingdom of heaven belongs to ones like these.” Jesus is not just talking about literal children, but about people who are like children in their attitude.

Why Matthew 19:14 matters

  • Matthew 19:14 corrects the idea that only adults or those with status are important to God; it shows that everyone, even those seen as insignificant, are valued in God’s kingdom.
  • The verse highlights a key teaching of Jesus: the kingdom of heaven is open to those who come with humility and trust, not just to the powerful or knowledgeable.
  • This moment fits into a larger theme in Matthew’s Gospel, where Jesus often challenges social norms and welcomes those whom others might overlook.

Where else these words appear

“forbid” Greek G2967 · used in 23 verses

  • Mark 9:38 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.
  • Luke 18:16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
  • Acts 27:43 But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land:

“children” Greek G3813 · used in 48 verses

  • Matthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
  • Mark 5:40 And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.
  • Luke 2:40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

“such” Greek G5108 · used in 59 verses

  • Matthew 9:8 But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.
  • Acts 26:29 And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.
  • 2 Corinthians 11:13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

“Suffer” Greek G863 · used in 133 verses

  • Matthew 3:15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.
  • Mark 2:7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only?
  • Luke 11:42 But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.