What Can You Learn From Children?

"YOU'RE acting like a child!"  If those words were directed at us, we would likely be offended.  Adorable as they are, little children clearly lack the maturity, experience, and wisdom generally associated with age. -Job 12:12.

Nevertheless, on one occasion Jesus told his disciples:  "Truly I say to you, Unless you turn around and become as young children, you will by no means enter into the kingdom of the heavens."  (Matthew 18:3)  What did Jesus mean?  What qualities do young children possess that adults do well to imitate?


Cultivating Childlike Humility

Consider the situation that prompted Jesus' remarks.   Having arrived in Capernum after a long journey, Jesus asked his disciples:  "What were you arguing over on the road?"   The embarrassed disciples remained silent, for they had argued among themselves about which one of them was greater.  Finally, they mustered up the courage to ask Jesus:  "Who really is the greatest in the kingdom of the heavens?" -Mark 9:33, 34; Matthew 18:1.

It may seem surprising that after being with Jesus for nearly three years, the disciples would argue about position or rank.  However, they had been raised in the Jewish religion, which place great importance on such matters.  Evidently, this religious background, coupled with human imperfection, influence the disciple's thinking. 

Next time: Conclusion of What Can You Learn From Children - Cultivating Childlike Humility

The Watchtower, 2007