A Kingdom For Children

A Kingdom For Children

Jesus On the Move Series - Week 9

Preached by Dr. Travis Young | Frontier Church | November 2


What happens when Jesus turns everything upside down? In Mark 10, we encounter one of the most countercultural moments in Jesus' ministry—He elevates children and confronts the rich. In a world where children were dismissed as insignificant distractions, Jesus gets indignant with His own disciples for pushing them away.

The Greek word for Jesus' reaction is ἀγανακτέω (aganakteō)—deeply moved with anger, greatly displeased. This isn't a mild correction. Jesus is visibly upset because His followers missed the heart of the Kingdom.

The Upside-Down Kingdom

Throughout our journey in Mark, we've seen Jesus heal the sick, teach in parables, and demonstrate divine authority. Now He declares that the Kingdom belongs to those who come like children—dependent, trusting, and humble. Meanwhile, the rich young ruler walks away sad, unable to let go of his wealth.

Jesus keeps turning our expectations upside down.

Personal Applications

Examine your posture. Are you coming to God with childlike faith, or are you clinging to what makes you feel secure and important? Jesus invites us to radical dependence.

Value what Jesus values. Who are the "insignificant" people in your life that you might be overlooking? Children, yes—but also the marginalized, the powerless, those society dismisses. Jesus calls us to see them as Kingdom citizens.

Confront your idols. What would you walk away sad about if Jesus asked you to release it? Your wealth, reputation, comfort, control? The rich man's money wasn't the problem—his inability to let go was.

Key Verse

"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." — Mark 10:14

Closing Prayer

Father, humble our hearts to receive Your Kingdom like children—with open hands and trusting hearts. Show us what we're clinging to that keeps us from following You fully. Help us to value what You value and see people the way You see them. In Jesus' name, amen.


—Dr. Travis Young
Frontier Church