What does Luke 18:17 mean?

Parents have been bringing their children for Jesus to bless. The disciples have been trying to stop them. They assume Jesus' time is too valuable to waste on those who have nothing to give (Luke 18:15). When Jesus hears them, He becomes indignant (Mark 10:14). He tells the disciples to let them come and to get out of their way. The kingdom of God belongs to those like these children (Luke 18:16).

Although adults bring these children to Jesus, He suggests a mutual acceptance between the children and Himself. The children come, and He accepts them. In return, they receive and enter the kingdom of God. Jesus' acceptance is the manifestation of God's kingdom in the moment. They have entered a holy place.

Some scholars believe that Jesus' words affirm the practice of infant baptism. That's not what He's teaching, here. Jesus is saying that children receive the kingdom of God with no expectation that power, good works, money, or reputation is required. They just walk in, and God welcomes them. Elsewhere, Jesus points out that to become like a child is a choice: "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3–4).

Next, Luke describes someone who finds this idea difficult. This man is important, rich, and godly. It appears that God has rewarded his obedience with earthly treasures; he expects to enjoy heavenly rewards as well. But he does not enter like a child. He wishes to keep his place in the world. Ironically, the disciples are more like the children than they know (Luke 18:18–30).