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Book of Luke - Chapter 9 - Verse 47

9:47
And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him,

Meaning

In this verse, we see Jesus demonstrating his deep understanding and perception of the inner thoughts and motivations of those around him. The phrase "perceiving the thought of their heart" highlights Jesus' ability to see beyond outward appearances and discern the true intentions and attitudes of individuals. By taking a child and setting them beside him, Jesus may have been illustrating the importance of humility, innocence, and simplicity in the kingdom of God. Children are often seen as symbols of purity, trust, and dependence, qualities that Jesus values in his followers. By using a child as a visual aid, Jesus may have been teaching his disciples and others present about the need for a childlike faith and openness in approaching God. This act of taking a child also serves as a reminder of the value that Jesus places on the youngest and most vulnerable members of society, encouraging his followers to care for and protect them. Overall, this verse showcases Jesus' profound insight into human nature and his desire to teach important spiritual truths through everyday interactions and tangible examples.

Theological Overview

When examining the verse where Jesus, perceiving the thoughts of the people's hearts, takes a child and sets him by him, we can delve into the theological implications of this action. The act of bringing a child to Jesus can be seen as a symbol of humility and purity, as children are often viewed as innocent and trusting. By setting a child beside him, Jesus may be emphasizing the importance of having a childlike faith in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. The word "perceiving" in this verse suggests that Jesus had a deep insight into the hearts and minds of those around him, highlighting his divine nature and ability to understand the innermost thoughts of individuals. This action serves as a reminder for us to approach God with the same simplicity and sincerity as a child, without any pretense or hidden motives. Through this verse, we are encouraged to cultivate a childlike faith and trust in God's wisdom and guidance.

American Standard Version

But when Jesus saw the reasoning of their heart, he took a little child, and set him by his side,
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