What the Bible says about Children, Characteristics of
(From Forerunner Commentary)
Isaiah reveals a society that can be aptly described as "upside down." Those who should be leading are not and those who should not are. A central factor in this is that the immature are leading. A free-wheeling, laissez faire, hedonistic, immoral, and irresponsible culture exists. Verses 5 and 12 confirm that family governance and leadership are greatly affected.
John W. Ritenbaugh
The Fifth Commandment (1997)Related Topics: Childish Behavior | Children as Oppressors | Children, Characteristics of | Family | Family Governance | Family Problems | Family Relationship | Fifth Commandment | Government | Hedonism | Hedonistic Lifestyles | Immature Standards | Immaturity | Oppressors , Children as | Rulers as Inexperienced Children | The Fifth Commandment | Upside Down Society
The character of the princes and rulers are that of inexperienced children, unqualified for government. Oppressors is literally "exactors" or "taxers of money." Believing the well will never run dry, they tax oppressively to pay for their extravagant spending and their childish endeavors.
Martin G. Collins
The Century of the Child
The disciples ask Jesus, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" Thinking that He was about to set up a great temporal kingdom, they want to know who would hold the primary offices and posts of honor and profit. Mark informs us that they had disputed this subject while traveling (Mark 9:34). Jesus asks them what they had been arguing about. Luke adds that Jesus perceives their thoughts (Luke 9:47). The disciples, conscious that Jesus is aware of their dispute, are at first embarrassed into silence, but they eventually ask Him to decide it for them. Jesus' reply are the parables found in Matthew 18:2-14.
Martin G. Collins
Parables of the Millstone and the Lost Sheep
Paul is saying that youth (children) exhibit characteristics that define them as different from adults, and that those characteristics must be cast aside before one is really an adult. These characteristics are not just signs of youth, but are signs of immaturity at any age. However, this world is constantly pressuring and convincing the youth to believe that they are more mature than they actually are. Currently, the number one and two causes of teenage death are accidents and suicide. This demonstrates that mentally, emotionally, and morally, teens are unable to handle the pressures of adulthood, and that they crash before ever reaching it.
John W. Ritenbaugh
Sanctification and the TeensRelated Topics: Children, Characteristics of | Immature Standards | Immaturity | Spiritual Immaturity | Spiritual Maturity | Spiritual Maturity, Process of