Jesus wasn't saying that you will get the kingdom if you are sweet enough, joyful enough, or innocent enough. He wasn't preaching works-based righteousness in any way. Instead, Jesus was making a comparison. Some people receive the kingdom. They receive it because they receive things like children receive things. The keyword is "receive." How do children receive things?
Read moreThe Kingdom Is Received With Childlike Faith (Mark 10:15)
I've read and heard many -- contradictory -- interpretations of what Jesus meant. Scholars and pastors run wild with the child analogy Jesus used. I understand. It is tempting to talk up children's innocence, spontaneity, eagerness, or joy. (2 Minutes, 500 Words)
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