Unless You Become Like a Child: What Jesus Taught Us About Heaven
Matthew 18:1–4 (ESV)
At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”
And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said,
“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.”
What Did Jesus Mean?
When Jesus said we must “become like children” to enter the kingdom of Heaven, He was not endorsing immaturity or ignorance.
He was pointing to something far deeper: a heart posture of humility, trust, and dependence. This wasn’t a metaphor.
It was a requirement for Heaven. So, what does that say about Heaven itself?
1. Heaven Is a Place Where the Humble Belong
In a world that rewards ambition, Jesus elevates humility. He didn’t say the mighty or the learned would enter Heaven—He said the humble would.
Isaiah 57:15 (ESV)
“For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy:
‘I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit…’”
Heaven is the dwelling place of the Most High—but it is also the eternal home of the lowly in heart.
2. Heaven Reflects the Character of Its King
Jesus often referred to God as “Our Father.” Children feel safe and joyful in the presence of a loving parent.
Heaven, then, must be a family home—a place of belonging, joy, and loving relationship.
Luke 18:16 (ESV)
“Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.”
Heaven is a place where those with childlike hearts feel at home, not excluded.
3. Heaven Is a Place of Innocence, Joy, and Simplicity
Children are free from cynicism and filled with joy. Jesus blessed them, welcomed them, and even modeled the Kingdom after them.
Mark 10:16 (ESV)
“And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.”
Heaven is not a cold place of theological abstractions—it is a place of pure joy and delight.
4. Heaven May Be More Understandable to a Childlike Heart
While theologians study its dimensions, a child can simply believe. Faith is the key—not intellect.
1 Corinthians 1:27 (ESV)
“But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.”
Heaven is not about how much you know—it’s about who you trust.
5. Heaven Welcomes Those Who Simply Trust
Children don’t earn their place—they are invited. Jesus says, “Believe also in Me.” That’s the key to entering His prepared place.
John 14:1–2 (ESV)
“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.
In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?”
Heaven is not achieved—it is received.
Final Thought
Jesus didn’t just elevate the idea of becoming like a child—He made it the
So, what does this reveal about Heaven?
- It is a place of humility and grace.
- It is a place of relationship, not religion.
- It is a place of joy and freedom, not striving and fear.
- It is a Father’s house, filled with those who simply believe.
Are You Ready?
Heaven is waiting—but you must come like a child: humble, trusting, surrendered.
Romans 10:9 (ESV)
“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Will you trust Him today?