Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15
Sunday School Lesson April 19, 2026
Sunday School 10AM
Children: Gift and Model - Mark 9:36–37, 42; 10:13–16
Mark 9: Jesus Redefines Greatness Using a Child The disciples are arguing about who’s the greatest among them. Classic power struggle. Jesus calls them out on their pride and ambition.
Then He does something radical: He takes a little child and puts him in the middle of them (verse 36). In that culture, children had NO status, NO power, NO voice. They were nobodies.
📍 Mark 9:36–37 — Receiving a Child
Jesus says: “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me” (verse 37).
Jesus places a child before His disciples and teaches:
Receiving a child = receiving Christ – True greatness is found in humility
👉 Kingdom principle: Greatness is not status—it’s humility.
________
Then He gives a terrifying warning: “If anyone causes one of these little ones… to stumble, it would be better for them to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone tied around their neck” (verse 42). Don’t mess with children. God takes their protection SERIOUSLY.
📍 Mark 9:42 — Protecting the Innocent
Jesus gives a strong warning:
Do not cause children to stumble – Accountability is serious before God
👉 Kingdom principle: Protect what God values.
📍 Mark 10:13–16 — Becoming Like Children
Jesus welcomes children when others tried to stop them:
The Kingdom belongs to such as these – We must receive it like a child
👉 Kingdom principle: Faith requires trust, humility, and openness.
1️⃣ Children Are a Gift from God –They are blessings—not burdens.
2️⃣ Children Reflect Kingdom Values Humility, trust, and sincerity.
3️⃣ How We Treat Children Matters to God It reveals our spiritual maturity.
4️⃣ Protecting Children Is a Responsibility Spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
5️⃣ We Must Become Like Children To fully receive God’s Kingdom.
Children aren’t interruptions—they’re GIFTS. They aren’t distractions—they’re MODELS of what faith should look like. And anyone who harms, neglects, or dismisses them will answer to Jesus Himself. Protect them. Value them. Learn from them. Welcome them like you’d welcome Jesus—because that’s exactly what you’re doing.
