Lambs for the Fold

Mark 10:14 – “But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.”

It is extremely important to press home the truths of the Gospel to the children when they are young and impressionable – before Satan can get a firm grip on their young lives.

An old Scottish elder was deeply concerned because the rather stern and aloof preacher who had recently come to their Church would not allow children to be admitted into the fellowship of the Church. The minister was a good man, very straight in regard to the doctrines of the Word, but he never addressed himself to the little ones. He concentrated his efforts on the adults and learned parishioners only.

One day an old saint invited the pastor to visit his farm home on the outskirts of the city. Following afternoon tea, the man took the minister to see his large flock of sheep as they were being brought in for the night. When they arrived at the sheepfold, the elder took his stand at the entrance. He allowed the full-grown animals to enter, but as the little lambs came up, he pushed them back with a heavy stick. Finally, the pastor became very indignant. “What are you doing to the little lambs,” he exclaimed, “they need the shelter far more than the sheep!” “The same thing you are doing to the children of the Church,” said his host with a meaningful look. The object lesson had its effect. Never again did the man of God neglect the youthful members of the flock. Instead, he urged them to receive Christ and at an early age find peace and shelter in the bosom of the Savior.