Matthew 19:14 is a verse where Jesus expresses his love for children, emphasizing their importance in the kingdom of heaven. The verse states, “But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’”
From an evangelical Christian perspective, the most likely author of the Gospel of Matthew is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Matthew, also known as Levi. Here are some key details regarding this attribution:
1. **Background**: Matthew was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus. He was a tax collector before following Christ, which is significant because tax collectors were often regarded with disdain in Jewish society. His background may have given him a unique perspective on grace and redemption.
2. **Eyewitness Account**: Evangelicals generally hold that the Gospel of Matthew is written by someone who had firsthand experience with Jesus. As an apostle, Matthew would have been present to witness Jesus’ teachings and actions, including the events described in Matthew 19.
3. **Target Audience**: The Gospel of Matthew is often viewed as being written primarily for a Jewish audience. It emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and includes many references to Jewish law and customs. This context is important for understanding verses like Matthew 19:14, which reflect Jewish values concerning children.
4. **Themes**: Matthew’s Gospel highlights key themes such as the kingdom of heaven, discipleship, and the teachings of Jesus. Matthew 19:14 is an illustration of Jesus’ compassion and inclusivity, emphasizing the worth and value of children, which aligns with the broader message of God’s love and grace throughout the Gospel.
5. **Historical Attribution**: Early church fathers and historical documents, such as those from Papias and Irenaeus, support the view that Matthew was the author of the Gospel bearing his name. Over time, this authorship has been widely accepted in the evangelical community.
Overall, Matthew 19:14 serves as a vital teaching moment that underscores Jesus’ welcoming attitude toward children, a sentiment that emphasizes the importance of faith, innocence, and humility in the Christian life, further illustrating the values that the Gospel of Matthew seeks to convey.
