Topical Encyclopedia
In the Bible, childhood is often used as a symbol and similitude to convey various spiritual truths and moral lessons. The concept of childhood is rich with meaning, representing innocence, dependence, growth, and the potential for transformation. These themes are woven throughout Scripture, providing insight into the nature of humanity and the kingdom of God.
Innocence and PurityChildhood is frequently associated with innocence and purity. Jesus highlights this in
Matthew 18:3, where He states, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Here, children symbolize the purity and humility required to enter God's kingdom. Their innocence is a model for believers, emphasizing the need for a heart free from pride and malice.
Dependence and TrustChildren naturally depend on their parents for sustenance and protection, symbolizing the believer's dependence on God. In
Psalm 131:2, David writes, "But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me." This imagery reflects a state of trust and contentment in God's provision and care, encouraging believers to rely on Him with childlike faith.
Growth and MaturityThe Bible also uses childhood to illustrate spiritual growth and maturity. In
1 Corinthians 13:11, Paul writes, "When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me." This passage underscores the transition from spiritual infancy to maturity, urging believers to grow in understanding and wisdom.
Potential for TransformationChildren represent the potential for transformation and new beginnings. In
Isaiah 11:6, the prophet envisions a future where "the wolf will dwell with the lamb, and the leopard will lie down with the goat; the calf and the young lion and the fattened calf together; and a little child will lead them." This imagery of a child leading symbolizes the transformative power of God's kingdom, where peace and harmony will prevail.
Teachability and LearningThe teachability of children is another important similitude.
Proverbs 22:6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This highlights the importance of instilling godly values and wisdom from a young age, emphasizing the role of parents and mentors in guiding children toward righteousness.
Joy and BlessingChildren are often seen as a source of joy and blessing.
Psalm 127:3 declares, "Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward." This verse celebrates the gift of children, recognizing them as a blessing from God and a source of joy and fulfillment for families.
In summary, the symbolism of childhood in the Bible serves as a profound metaphor for spiritual truths, illustrating the qualities of innocence, dependence, growth, and the potential for transformation. Through these images, Scripture calls believers to embrace childlike faith, pursue spiritual maturity, and recognize the blessings inherent in the gift of children.
Nave's Topical Index
Matthew 18:3And said, Truly I say to you, Except you be converted, and become as little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Nave's Topical IndexMark 10:14,15
But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said to them, Suffer the little children to come to me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Nave's Topical Index
Luke 18:16,17
But Jesus called them to him, and said, Suffer little children to come to me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
The Comfort of the Milk
... all the benefits which embellished his childhood, as well ... from their littleness one
of those similitudes which He, with His fondness for symbols, favoured. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bertrand/saint augustin/iii the comfort of the.htm
An American Reformer
... In early childhood, however, he was thrown into ... great joy, that the prophetic symbols
could be ... various figures, metaphors, parables, similitudes, etc., were ...
/.../white/the great controversy/chapter 18 an american reformer.htm
The Talking Book
... despite to the tender obligations of childhood, as well ... of His approaching advent
in the symbols of the ... be conceived of as though such similitudes were literal ...
//christianbookshelf.org/spurgeon/sermons on proverbs/the talking book.htm
The Talking Book
... despite to the tender obligations of childhood, as well ... of His approaching advent
in the symbols of the ... be conceived of as though such similitudes were literal ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/the talking book.htm
An American Reformer.
... of sterling piety, and in childhood he had ... his great joy, that the prophetic symbols
could be ... the various figures, metaphors, parables, similitudes, etc., were ...
/.../the great controversy between christ and satan /18 an american reformer.htm
Resources
Who was Ishtar, and is there any connection between Ishtar and Easter? | GotQuestions.orgAre the seven Catholic sacraments biblical? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Christian fish symbol mean (ixthus / icthus)? | GotQuestions.orgSymbols: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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