Thru the Bible - Minute with McGee: “Teach the Children” (March 16, 2026)
Episode Overview
In this short but impactful episode, Dr. J. Vernon McGee addresses the vital importance of ministering to children, drawing from Christ’s teachings and emphasizing the high priority God places on reaching the youngest among us. The discussion spotlights the spiritual significance and responsibility of evangelizing and caring for children, and issues a stirring commendation for anyone engaged in children’s ministry.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
The Sacred Charge of Ministering to Children
- Scriptural Foundation
- Dr. McGee opens by quoting from the words of Jesus, “And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me… whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he was drowned in the depth of the sea.” (Matthew 18:5-6)
- He explains that these are strong words, underscoring both the value God assigns to children and the seriousness of causing them harm.
- Divine Imperative
- Dr. McGee asserts:
“What He’s doing here in this entire section. Seems to me he makes the evangelization of children a divine imperative. He gives top priority to this type of ministry…” (00:26)
- This frames ministry to children not just as a good work, but as a central mandate for the church and for all believers.
Commendation for Children’s Ministry
- Encouragement to Workers
- Dr. McGee warmly commends anyone working in children’s ministry, calling it the most important work believers can engage in:
“And I commend anyone that’s working with children today. There’s nothing as important as that.” (00:43)
- This uplift serves both as advocacy for the value of children’s ministry and as encouragement for those already engaged.
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- “And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me... whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck…”
— Dr. J. Vernon McGee, quoting Jesus (00:06)
- “That’s rather strong language, by the way.”
— Dr. J. Vernon McGee (00:20)
- “Seems to me he makes the evangelization of children a divine imperative. He gives top priority to this type of ministry…”
— Dr. J. Vernon McGee (00:29)
- “I commend anyone that’s working with children today. There’s nothing as important as that.”
— Dr. J. Vernon McGee (00:43)
Timestamps for Important Segments
- 00:06 — Scriptural foundation: Jesus’ teaching about receiving and offending little children.
- 00:26 — Dr. McGee’s insight on the evangelization of children as a divine imperative.
- 00:43 — Commendation and encouragement for those working in children’s ministry.
Tone and Language
Dr. McGee speaks with characteristic warmth, directness, and gravity, blending biblical exposition with heartfelt encouragement and urgency. His words are straightforward, compassionate, and resonate with both conviction and pastoral care.
Summary
This episode makes clear that, in the view of Dr. McGee and grounded in the teachings of Jesus, ministering to children is not just commendable but imperative. The strong biblical language highlights both the responsibility and privilege involved, serving as a call to prioritize and honor any labor to reach “the little ones” in Christ’s name.
