In a world that often equates complexity with value, Jesus challenges us to consider the power of simplicity in our faith. We can get caught up in the idea that “more” always equals “better” when it comes to understanding God. But, as we’ll see, Jesus tells us that entering His kingdom requires the kind of faith a child has—beautiful, simple, and profound.
Today, we’ll explore what it looks like to live with that childlike faith, especially when our culture constantly pushes for spiritual achievement or next-level knowledge. We'll look closely at the Gospel of Mark, Chapter 10, and some transformative truths about simplicity in faith that offer rich depth, genuine challenge, and ongoing growth.
Childlike Faith in Mark 10:13-16
In Mark 10:13-16, we find a scene where parents bring their children to Jesus, hoping He’ll bless them. The disciples, seeing this, rebuke the parents, thinking Jesus shouldn’t be “bothered” by children. But this angers Jesus, and He says, “Let the children come to me...for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Jesus doesn’t ask for an intellectualized or “mature” faith here. Instead, He invites us to embrace a simple, unburdened trust in Him—like that of a child.
What Childlike Faith Looks Like
Simple Does Not Mean Shallow Simplicity is not about dumbing down our faith but about embracing truths with depth. Basic Gospel messages like “Jesus loves you” and “Jesus died for you” carry incredible weight. They’re truths that transform our lives, whether we’re hearing them for the first time or the thousandth. As Christians, we don’t graduate from these foundational truths; instead, we build our faith on them.
Simple Does Not Mean Easy Following Jesus can be challenging, even if His words are simple to understand. Commands like “love your neighbor” or “don’t be anxious” are straightforward, but they’re not easy to live out. Jesus’ call to take up our cross is clear, yet carrying it daily requires profound trust and commitment.
Simple Does Not Mean Boring A childlike faith is anything but dull. Kids find excitement in the little things, wonder in the everyday. This childlike perspective, one full of awe and curiosity, should characterize our faith journey. Instead of seeing God’s simple truths as “elementary,” we can view them as springboards for deeper relationship and discovery.
Simple Does Not Mean We Settle Simplicity is not a call to stagnate. While our faith can start with simple truths, we are always invited to grow and mature. The writer of Hebrews talks about moving from spiritual “milk” to “solid food,” yet both are essential. The basics of faith—reading the Bible and praying—are timeless practices. Their impact deepens as we grow and mature in Christ.
Embracing the Beauty of Simple
Returning to the “simple” things like prayer, Bible study, and worship might sound basic, but they’re the foundational practices that fuel our spiritual growth at every stage. Simple faith isn’t about doing less; it’s about anchoring ourselves in the truths that first captured our hearts. If you find yourself feeling like you’re not “doing enough,” remember: childlike faith doesn’t mean childish faith—it’s faith that’s open, trusting, and grounded in God’s promises.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up, let’s strive to live out a faith that is simple but deep, challenging but possible, unchanging yet always growing. Embracing a childlike perspective doesn’t mean we stop growing in our relationship with God. Instead, it allows us to stand on the unshakeable foundation of His love and grace, inspiring us to trust, grow, and serve as His children. Let’s never lose the beauty of simple.
