"Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven" Matthew 18:3.

Entering the kingdom of God is the utmost priority. Jesus implores us to seek first the kingdom (Matthew 6:33), while trusting that life’s needs will be met as we make this our primary pursuit. But, exactly how do we enter the kingdom? According to Jesus, it is based on a maturity antitype: child-likeness. Having stated this, Jesus does not go on to tell us what child-like qualities are essential; we are left to figure this out ourselves.

We’ve likely all seen very undesirable child-like qualities such as tantrums and selfishness. These cannot possibly be what Jesus had in mind, but there are at least two qualities that seem necessary: uncomplicated trust, and teachability.

Young children generally accept what is said at face value. The harsh reality of life experience later teaches skepticism concerning hidden motive, which provides necessary discernment in human dealings. But, this child-like trust concerning the things of God is essential, and is epitomized in the man of faith, Abraham, who, “believed in the LORD; and He reckoned it to him as righteousness” Genesis 15:6.

A young child is teachable. In their formative years, a child is easily influenced by both example and word. They both imitate and mimic what they see and hear; they are eager to learn.

Among the necessary qualities of an elder is that of being “able to teach” 1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:24. In the original language, the intent is that he is able to teach, but also able to be taught. He is both a lifelong teacher as well as a lifelong learner. This is a necessary quality for all who desire to enter the kingdom of God. When we cease to grow in truth, we cease to pursue the kingdom.

Jesus clearly states an essential child-like quality in Matthew 18:4. "Whoever then humbles himself as this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” We see this quality exemplified in Moses: ”Now the man Moses was very humble, more than any man who was on the face of the earth" Numbers 12:3.

The way of the kingdom is simple acceptance of God’s truth, an unwavering desire to grow and learn, and a humility that guides both. Confusing as it might sound, the priority is to grow up and be like a child.

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