The Bible does not explicitly discuss the concept of “children’s rights” as we understand it today. However, there are many biblical principles and passages that relate to how children should be valued, cared for, and treated within families and society.
Children are a gift from God
The Bible teaches that children are a blessing from God. Psalms 127:3 states “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” Children are described as a gift and inheritance from God. Exodus 20:12 instructs people to “honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.”
Parents have responsibilities towards their children
While children are to honor their parents, the Bible also teaches that parents have responsibilities towards their children. Parents are instructed to train up their children in the Lord (Proverbs 22:6, Ephesians 6:4). Fathers in particular are told not to provoke their children to anger, but to bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Parents are to care for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of their children.
Caring for widows and orphans
The Bible frequently emphasizes caring for those who are vulnerable, including widows and orphans who have lost their primary caregivers. James 1:27 states that part of living out religious faith is to care for widows and orphans in their distress. Exodus 22:22 warns against taking advantage of widows or orphans. God promises to come to the aid of the fatherless and upholds the cause of the widow (Deuteronomy 10:18, Psalm 146:9).
The protection of children
There are various Old Testament laws that provide protections for children. Leviticus 18 and 20 condemn child sacrifice and warn against involvement in acts that could bring harm to children. Passages such as Deuteronomy 22:25-26 address the rape of a virgin, demanding justice. Exodus 21:22-25 discusses accidental injury to a pregnant woman, suggesting that the baby’s life has value.
Guidance about discipline
The book of Proverbs offers guidance to parents about properly disciplining their children. It encourages verbal correction rather than physical discipline, such as beating children severely. “Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you strike him with a rod, he will not die. If you strike him with the rod, you will save his soul from Sheol.” (Proverbs 23:13-14). Discipline is part of training up a child properly, but there are limits.
Valuing and protecting the weak
Jesus set an example of caring for children during his ministry on Earth. He rebuked his disciples for trying to prevent people from bringing children to see him, saying, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14). Jesus welcomed and blessed the children.
Jesus taught that those who follow him should become like little children (Matthew 18:3). Children were seen as models for the kind of humility, trust and lack of pretense required to enter the kingdom of God. Christ cared deeply for all those considered weaker members of society.
Equality before God
The New Testament teaches that in Christ, human divisions and hierarchies are erased. Galatians 3:28 states, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” While it does not specifically mention children, the passage emphasizes equality before God.
In God’s kingdom, worldly categories fall away. All believers share the same spiritual status and blessings. God values children just as much as adults. As Jesus taught, God desires for little ones to come to Him.
A child’s place in the family
The Bible gives instructions about family structure that affect children. Passages like Ephesians 5-6 and Colossians 3 describe hierarchical family relationships. Children are instructed to obey both their fathers and mothers, recognizing their God-given authority.
In exchange, fathers (parents) are cautioned against exasperating their children but to instead nurture them. Wives are told to submit to husbands as the head of the home. While these hierarchical relationships reflected cultural norms, they assume the protection of children within families.
Childhood innocence
Jesus used a child’s innocence as an example that adults should seek to emulate. In Matthew 18:2-4 he says, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Children were seen as embodying qualities like humility, curiosity and authenticity.
Developing wisdom and stature
Luke 2:52 describes Jesus as a child who “increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.” This encourages the holistic development of children. As children grow, they should increase in their spiritual understanding and relationship with God as well as their physical and mental wellbeing. Parents and society should facilitate this growth.
Molding character and habits
Various Proverbs describe how the habits and character developed in childhood affect one’s future. “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6). Verses like Proverbs 20:11 warn that even in youth, children reveal their character through their actions. Forming good habits early yields later rewards.
Future hopes and calling
Parents often desire better lives for their children, as seen in biblical examples like Moses’ mother. Jeremiah 29 offers a letter with advice and encouragement for the future of the exiled children. Psalm 78 exhorts telling the next generation about God to put hope in Him. Believers are called to pass on faith to children, giving them hope and purpose.
Submission to governing authorities
The Bible encourages appropriate submission to earthly authorities, which would include those that affect children. Passages like Romans 13:1 tell believers to “be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” Christians are called to obey lawful authorities, though there may be exceptions when commands clearly violate God’s moral laws.
Acceptable work for children
While child labor exploitation and abuse is condemned, the Bible accepts children engaging in certain types of work. Passages portray children working in family businesses and caring for flocks. Age-appropriate chores within proper limits can develop character. However, demanding excessive hazardous work violates biblical principles of protecting the vulnerable.
Fairness for foreigners
Old Testament law commanded God’s people to treat foreigners living among them fairly, such as orphaned non-Israelite children. “You shall not oppress a sojourner…You shall not mistreat any widow or fatherless child.” (Exodus 22:21-22). Concern for foreigners and minorities is repeatedly emphasized in Scripture.
God’s special concern for the disadvantaged
Throughout Scripture, God demonstrates special care for disadvantaged groups, including children lacking normal family support. He promises to be a father “to the fatherless” (Psalm 68:5). God hears their cries and comes to their aid against oppressors. His people are to reflect His compassionate character.
Loving all children
While the Bible does not directly address racial discrimination, verses like Galatians 3:28 reveal that discrimination based on race, gender or status is against biblical values. Followers of Christ should actively counter such attitudes. All children have value as human beings made in God’s image.
Prioritizing mercy over legalism
Bible passages like Matthew 23:23, Micah 6:8 and James 2 emphasize prioritizing mercy, justice and compassion over legalistic rule-following. Jesus corrected those who scorned children in Matthew 18. As with other disadvantaged groups, God calls His people to advocate for children’s wellbeing rather than hide behind traditions, regulations or selfishness.
A high view of human life
The Bible teaches that human beings are uniquely created by God in His image (Genesis 1:27). Human life is sacred, beginning from conception (Psalm 139:13-16). Murder is strongly condemned. Society must implement justice without shedding innocent blood (Deuteronomy 19:10). These principles establish the fundamental value of unborn babies as well as born children.
The Church’s role with families
The New Testament describes the Church as a new family of faith. The Church is called to provide spiritual nurturing to families raising children. Paul writes of his “children in the faith” (1 Timothy 1:2, Titus 1:4). Churches today can support parents seeking to raise children according to biblical values and with loving guidance.
Christian influence on laws and culture
Christians are urged to promote biblical morality and work for justice in their communities and nations. They can raise awareness and advocate for laws that protect children from various forms of abuse and exploitation. Christians can also support ministries serving needy children locally and globally. The Church can be a voice for children’s welfare.
Conclusion
The Bible depicts children as blessings from God who bear His image. Scripture provides principles to guide the treatment, discipline, and training of children within families and communities. It emphasizes protecting and advocating for the vulnerable. While not directly addressing modern notions of children’s rights, the Bible offers foundational moral guidance relevant to nurturing and protecting children in society today.