2. The gospel changes the value of children
Children must not be overvalued. Our culture tends to overemphasize the importance of our children's success and happiness because they are our "future" and our "hope." But the gospel promises each of us (and them) a "hope and a future" (Jer 29:11) through new life in Jesus Christ. Overvaluing our children leads to idolatry.

Children must not be undervalued. Our culture teaches that bigger, smarter, stronger is better. But the gospel uses the "littleness" of children, their weakness and humility as an example for adults to follow (Mt 18:2-4). We need to learn from children and must not look down on them (Mt 18:10a). Undervaluing our children leads to pride and arrogance.

Through the gospel, children are neither overvalued nor undervalued. The gospel teaches us to love and respect our children yet frees us from focusing all our resources on promoting them at the expense of others whom God would lead us to serve (Mt 10:37-38).

3.The gospel calls us to reach out to children in our communities
We need to be responsive and attractive to children in our communities and bring them to Jesus (Mt 18:14).

We need to be prepared to welcome children into our midst even as we would Jesus himself (Mt 18:5).

God draws parents to seek after Him through concern for their children (Mk 7:24-30, Mk 5:22-23). We can serve adults in our communities by being a blessing to their children.

4.Children are our co-workers in the gospel community
Because we do not idolize our children, their interests are not supreme. We are not slaves to their schedules and whims and are thereby able and available to serve others in our community.

God uses the small offerings of children to bless their community (Jn 6: 1-15).

God uses the praise of children to silence His critics (Ps 8:2).