Mark 9:37

9:37 “Whoever welcomes ¹  one of these little children ²  in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”

Mark 10:14

10:14 But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the little children come to me and do not try to stop them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. ³ 

¹ tn This verb, δέχομαι (decomai), is a term of hospitality (L&N 34.53).

² sn Children were very insignificant in ancient culture, so this child would be the perfect object lesson to counter the disciples’ selfish ambitions.

³ sn The kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Children are a picture of those whose simple trust illustrates what faith is all about. The remark illustrates how everyone is important to God, even those whom others regard as insignificant.