English Standard Version ESV
The Message Bible MSG
15 Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them.
15
People brought babies to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. When the disciples saw it, they shooed them off.
16 But Jesus called them to him, saying, "Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.
16
Jesus called them back. "Let these children alone. Don't get between them and me. These children are the kingdom's pride and joy.
17 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it."
17
Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in."
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.