Verse 13. - It is worthy of notice that this touching incident follows here, as well as in the parallel passage in St. Matthew (Matthew 21:13). He immediately after the discourse about the marriage bond. And they brought unto him (προσέφερον) - literally, were bringing - little children (παιδία) - St. Luke (Luke 18:15) calls them "babes" (βρέφη) - thathe should touch them (ἵνα ἅψηται αὐτῶν). St. Luke has the same word (ἵνα ἅπτηται); but St. Matthew (Matthew 21:13) says "that he should lay his hands on them and pray." The imposition of hands implies a formal benediction; the invoking of Divine grace upon them, that they might grow up into wise and holy men and women. Why did the disciples rebuke them? Perhaps because they thought it unworthy of so great a Prophet, whose business was rather that of instructing those of full age, to be spending his time upon little children.
10:13-16 Some parents or nurses brought little children to Christ, that he should touch them, in token of his blessing them. It does not appear that they needed bodily cures, nor were they capable of being taught: but those who had the care of them believed that Christ's blessing would do their souls good; therefore they brought them to him. Jesus ordered that they should be brought to him, and that nothing should be said or done to hinder it. Children should be directed to the Saviour as soon as they are able to understand his words. Also, we must receive the kingdom of God as little children; we must stand affected to Christ and his grace, as little children to their parents, nurses, and teachers.
And they brought young children to him,.... The parents, or friends, or nurses of the children in those parts, having heard of the fame of Jesus; and having entertained an high opinion of him, as a great prophet, and a holy, good man, brought their children in their arms, or hands,
that he should touch them; as he did when he healed diseased persons, as these might be, though not expressed:
and his disciples rebuked those that brought them; See Gill on Matthew 19:13.
that he should touch them; as he did when he healed diseased persons, as these might be, though not expressed:
and his disciples rebuked those that brought them; See Gill on Matthew 19:13.