Episode 3 – Jesus Loves the Little Children

Jesus camps on the outskirts of Capernaum, 26 AD. A local girl named Abigail discovers the location and plays with the craftsman’s tools while he is away. She invites her friend Joshua to come see Jesus for himself. Jesus soon befriends Abigail and Joshua, as well as the friends they invite in the following days. The children help Jesus on his work. Jesus teaches them about love, prayer, justice, compassion, faith, and wisdom. When he is asked the reason why he is here, Jesus reveals himself as Messiah, reciting the words of the prophet Isaiah. After Jesus moves camp, Abigail discovers he left a gift for her.

Pray

Pray together for the group meeting, and any pressing needs within the group.

Watch

Watch the following discussion-starter video. It’ll set the topic of discussion for the group.

Personal Impact

What quote from this episode was the most meaningful/impactful to you? Why?

Discuss

1. How did Jesus’ treatment of the children impact you?
2. Jesus was both playful and purposeful as He related to the children. What does that say about how God relates to us?
3. In this episode Jesus is seen praying routinely (mealtimes, bedtime) and passionately. What is your prayer life like? How does this portrayal of Jesus’ prayers encourage you?
4. Jesus’ response to some of the children’s questions seemed evasive or incomplete. Why do you think that is?
5. How does this relate to His responses to our questions? (Example: One child, Joshua, asked “Is your father rich?” Jesus answered, “That is a question for another time.”)
6. Jesus’ gift reminded Abigail that He did not come only for the wealthy. How does that make you feel about Jesus?
7. What does that mean about how we as His disciples treat people?
8. Why do you think Jesus welcomed these children? How does this help you to understand how much He desires to welcome you?
   7. What would it take for you to trust Jesus afresh with the absolute faith of a child?

Explore Deeper – Matthew 18:1-5

1. READ: One person will first read the scripture selection in the King James Version.
2. RE-READ: Next, another person will read the same passages in a modern language or amplified version for more clarity such as the New Living Translation (NLT), Message Bible (MSG), New English Translation (NET), Amplified Bible (AMP), etc. We recommend using the YouVersion Bible app.
3. RETELL: One person will begin retelling the scripture passage in their own words (a new person to start each week is great!) Then as a group, work together to fill in gaps and build the story. This will help us internalize and own it. Be sure everyone participates.

• The disciples had a question for Jesus about who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. Why do you think this was important to them? 
• What value or detriment is there in comparing greatness among people?
• What is the significance of Jesus calling a child to come to him while he spoke? Could he have made his point without the real life example?
• How do you think the child would have felt during this conversation?
• What does Jesus mean when he says to be converted and become like little children? Describe what this might look like.
• How important did Jesus say this conversion was?
• What is the value of humility to Jesus? And why would this be an important asset in the Kingdom of Heaven?
• Describe the difference between humility and the question the disciples asked in verse 1.
• What might it look like today to “receive a little child like this” in His name.
• Jesus said receiving a child in his name is like receiving him. What does this mean?