AM Scripture Reading: Mark 10.13-16

This Morning’s Sermon:

Brent T. Willey

HINDER NOT OUR YOUTH

Matthew 19.13-15; Mark 10.13-16; Luke 18.15-17

Introduction:

1. Jesus told His disciples, “Let the children come to Me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven” (Mark 10.14).

2. Look at His statement, “do not hinder them.”

   1. The KJV, NKJ & ASV-01 use the word “forbid.”

   2. Kōlúō: “i.e., prevent (by word or act)” (Vine); “to hinder…to withhold a thing from anyone” (Thayer). (E.g., Matt. 9.38-39; Acts 8.36; Acts 10.47)

3. How many children are “hindered” from coming to Christ?

4. We must employ positive methods that will lead our children to godliness & faithfulness. What can we do?

I. POSITIVE EXAMPLES

1. Parenting – this is where it begins! (Gen. 18.19)

2. Principles – from love to discipline! (Eph. 6.4)

3. Priorities – children see parental examples! (Matt. 6.33)

II. POSITIVE TEACHING

1. At home – again, it’s where it begins! (2 Tim. 1.5; 3.14-17)

2. At Bible classes – others care! (Col. 1.28)

III. POSITIVE ATTITUDES

1. The importance of spiritual reinforcement. (2 Cor. 3.4-5)

2.  What “attitude” do we portray towards our youth?

1. Cynical comments about raising children today…

2. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil. 4.13).

Conclusion: If we wish to lead our youth in the right direction, it is imperative that we are positive in our example, in our teaching, and certainly, in our attitude!