New International Reader's Version

Matthew 19:10-16 New International Reader's Version (NIRV)

10. The disciples said to him, "If that's the way it is between a husband and wife, it is better not to get married."

11. Jesus replied, "Not everyone can accept the idea of staying single. Only those who have been helped to live without getting married can accept it.

12. Some men are not able to have children because they were born that way. Some have been made that way by other people. Others have made themselves that way in order to serve the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept living that way should do it."

13. Some people brought little children to Jesus. They wanted him to place his hands on the children and pray for them. But the disciples told the people to stop.

14. Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me. Don't keep them away. The kingdom of heaven belongs to people like them."

15. Jesus placed his hands on them. Then he went on from there.

16. A man came up to Jesus. He asked, "Teacher, what good thing must I do to receive eternal life?"