Childlike or Childish?

Nº 367

August 12, 2025

Childlike faith is not childish faith. The first resonates with and embraces the neediness, dependency, and smallness of those who understand their place in the kingdom of God. The second simply refuses to grow up. - Rusty Osborne

Jesus made a puzzling statement to His disciples. He said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3)

So, what does it mean to become like a child? I’ve seen delightful children who laugh, sing, play, and enjoy life; they are great! But I’ve also been around those who are selfish, mean, obstinate, and unkind. I don’t want anyone to be like them.

There is a world of difference between being childlike and childish. There are way too many childish Christians. Those who want their way, hurt those around them, throw tantrums, and generally don’t play nice! Like spoiled children, they think they are the center of the universe.

The key characteristic of children that Jesus is focused on is humility. He goes on, “Whoever humbles himself like this little child. . .” (Matthew 18:4) Childlike humility recognizes our insufficiency and our need for someone bigger and stronger than us to provide for our care and protection.

A childish faith is centered on self. A childlike faith humbly looks to the only One who can truly meet our needs and provide our eternal care and protection.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin