Jesus’ statement that the kingdom belongs to little children is accompanied by his gesture of blessing (Matthew 19:15), laying his hands on them just as a high priest would when blessing his people.
After unconditionally promising the kingdom to these children (Matthew 19:14), Jesus gives these children, who cannot yet speak for themselves or become disciples, his intercession and the blessing of God.
Jesus’ statement that the kingdom of heaven belongs to little children is accompanied by a practical gesture dispensing this blessing (Matthew 19:15). Jesus lays his hands on them just as a high priest would when blessing his people.1
After having unconditionally promised the kingdom of heaven to these children (Matthew 19:14), Jesus now blesses them with the laying on of hands. And so these little children who cannot yet speak for themselves, and who, because of their age, cannot yet become disciples, also receive Jesus’ intercession and the blessing of the Lord God.2
14 but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”