Sermon: The Kingdom of God and the Christian Journey

Reference Text: Mark 10:13-16

Verse 13: People were bringing little children to Jesus, but the disciples rebuked them.
Verse 14: Jesus was indignant and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these."
Verse 15: Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Verse 16: Jesus took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.

Gratitude to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit for the privilege of being in the presence of the Word.
Request for the opening of hearts and minds to understand and apply the Word of God.

Context: Lived in England in the mid-1600s.
Persecution: Preached without a license from the Anglican Church and was imprisoned for 12 years.
Writing: During his imprisonment, he wrote "The Pilgrim's Progress," an allegory about the Christian life.
Main character: Christian, who discovers the burden of sin by reading the Bible.
Encounter with Evangelist: Directed to go on the narrow path that leads to the celestial gate.
Story Symbolism: The burden of sin falls at the cross, and he receives new clothes and a certificate to enter the celestial city.
Character Ignorance: Represents proud people who do not accept the Gospel and try to enter heaven based on their own good deeds.
Conclusion: Only those who follow Jesus' teachings and come to the cross will be accepted into the celestial city.

Characteristics:
- It cannot be earned, only received.
- It is received like a child: with humility, renouncing pride and personal ideas.
- Entering the Kingdom of God requires being born again and accepting Jesus' authority.
Importance of Humility:
- Children come with empty hands, receiving everything freely.
- We cannot enter the Kingdom of God through our good deeds or personal merits.
Example of the Thief on the Cross:
- He asked for mercy from Jesus and received the promise that he would be with Him in paradise.

Parents' Responsibility:
- To bring their children to Jesus.
- The role of fathers in teaching their children about God.
Obstacles:
- Sometimes, even the disciples/church can hinder those who come to Jesus.
- The Lord Jesus is angered when children are prevented from coming to Him.

Reflection Questions:
- On what basis do you believe you can enter the Kingdom of God?
- Have you renounced your own ideas and accepted what Jesus says about entering His Kingdom?
Encouragement:
- To humble ourselves and surrender our lives to Jesus Christ.
- To continue living focused on the Gospel and trusting in God's promises.

Gratitude for God's Word and for teaching us the way to His Kingdom.
Prayer for each person present to surrender their life to Jesus and live according to the Gospel.
Blessing for families, parents, and children, asking for God's touch and protection.