• Introduction of summer sermon series: "The Hard Sayings of Jesus"
• Discussion on why some passages in the Bible may be difficult to understand or accept
• Reading from Matthew 18, specifically verses 1-7, about becoming like little children and welcoming them in Jesus' name
• Analogies and quotes shared by Pastor regarding parenting and how it relates to the passage
• Explanation of Jesus' love for children and the significance of this in his teachings
• Contextualizing the importance of children in ancient society and its relevance to understanding Jesus' words
• The question of entering the kingdom of heaven and what it means to be like a child
• Jesus' teaching in Matthew 18 that unless we become like little children, we will never enter the kingdom of heaven
• The characteristics of children that Jesus is referring to: vulnerability, dependence, trust, and humility
• How Western society's values of self-sufficiency and independence make it hard for people to accept this teaching
• The need for humility to accept Jesus and be part of the church
• The role of God in humbling people and leading them to ask for help and grace.
• The importance of humility and vulnerability in following Jesus
• Becoming like children to enter the kingdom of heaven
• The dangers of causing others, especially children, to stumble or sin
• Consequences for those who harm or take advantage of vulnerable individuals
• Responsibility as parents, caregivers, or spiritual leaders to disciple and train those under their care
• The importance of repenting and seeking forgiveness from children when parenting was hurtful
• Jesus' call to become like a child to enter the kingdom of heaven and protect and care for children
• The significance of welcoming vulnerable children as welcoming Jesus himself
• The church's responsibility in caring for 80 children under age 8, with many more participating in ministries
• The church's natural strength in caring for children, with various ways of doing so through volunteering and ministry programs
• The speaker emphasizes the importance of adults being involved in the lives of children, especially those without parents or with struggling families.
• A study from "Sticky Faith" found that resilient faith in children is often linked to having five non-parent adult caregivers who show love, care, and support.
• Practical examples include showing up to birthdays and celebrations, listening to them, and being available.
• The speaker shares a story about Kendra, a girl with disabilities, who was loved and cared for by her teacher, Miss Lowry, with the simple yet powerful words "I wish you were mine."
• Adults in the community are encouraged to come alongside children and invest in their lives as safe and loving influences.
• The importance of protecting children
• Prayer for the blessing and protection of church family's children
• Requesting energy, strength, perseverance, love to care for and teach children
• Asking God to protect children from evil and temptation
• Praying for children to thrive in the kingdom of God
• Requesting God to teach adults to learn from their children's vulnerability and humility