In the Scriptures, the term "little children" is used both literally and metaphorically to describe believers, emphasizing qualities such as innocence, humility, and dependence on God. This title reflects the spiritual posture that followers of Christ are encouraged to adopt in their relationship with God and with one another.

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Literal Children: In the Gospels, Jesus often interacted with literal children, using them as examples of the kingdom of God. In Matthew 19:14 , Jesus says, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Here, Jesus highlights the importance of childlike faith and openness to receiving the kingdom.

2. Spiritual Metaphor: The term "little children" is frequently used by the Apostle John in his epistles to address believers. In 1 John 2:1 , he writes, "My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you will not sin." This affectionate term underscores the intimate and nurturing relationship between spiritual leaders and their congregations, as well as the innocence and purity expected of believers.

3. Humility and Dependence: Jesus uses children as a model for the humility required to enter the kingdom of heaven. In Matthew 18:3-4 , He states, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." This passage emphasizes the need for believers to adopt a humble and dependent attitude, recognizing their need for God's grace and guidance.

4. Innocence and Purity: The innocence of children is often paralleled with the purity that believers are called to maintain. In 1 John 3:7 , John writes, "Little children, let no one deceive you: The one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous." Here, the term "little children" serves as a reminder of the call to live a life of righteousness and purity, free from the corruption of sin.

5. Protection and Care: The imagery of little children also conveys the idea of God's protection and care for His people. In John 21:5 , Jesus addresses His disciples as "children" when He appears to them after His resurrection, saying, "Children, do you have any fish?" This term of endearment reflects the ongoing care and provision that Jesus offers to His followers.

Theological Implications

The use of "little children" as a title for saints carries profound theological implications. It calls believers to a life of humility, dependence, and purity, mirroring the qualities of literal children. This title also reassures believers of their identity as cherished members of God's family, under His loving care and guidance. The metaphor of little children serves as a constant reminder of the transformative power of faith and the call to live in a manner worthy of the kingdom of God.John 13:33
Little children, yet a little while I am with you. You shall seek me: and as I said to the Jews, Where I go, you cannot come; so now I say to you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 John 2:1
My little children, these things write I to you, that you sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints
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see the saints of God ... t expect kings to put down their names for trifles. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/the kingly priesthood of the.htm

They Shall be Called the Children of God
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have titles of honour ... then the dew of tears falls from the eyes of the saints. ...
/.../the beatitudes an exposition of matthew 51-12/19 they shall be called.htm

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/.../kingsley/historical lectures and essays/rondelet 7 the huguenot naturalist.htm

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//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the antichrist/the papacy not the antichrist.htm

The Saints' Privilege and Profit;
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/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the saints privilege and profit.htm

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Wisdom and Revelation.
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/.../thomas/the prayers of st paul/vii wisdom and revelation.htm

The Second Sermon, in the Afternoon.
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/.../latimer/sermons on the card and other discourses/the second sermon in the.htm

The Beloved Pastor's Plea for Unity
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John, by their right names, but must ... These saints, also, had the same grace. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 39 1893/the beloved pastors plea for.htm

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