Scripture & Rights

What the Bible Says About Children's Rights

Jesus placed children at the centre — and the South African Constitution reflects that priority. Here is what Scripture says about the rights of children, and how the Children's Act gives those principles legal force.

Free 5 Scriptures SA Law Context

Jesus stopped his disciples from pushing children away. He placed a child in the centre of the disciples' argument about greatness. He warned that harming a child would bring the most severe judgment. Scripture treats children not as property of their parents but as persons with inherent dignity — a principle the South African Constitution fully reflects.

What Scripture Says

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 18:2–5 (NET)

“"I tell you the truth, unless you turn around and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven... Whoever welcomes a child like this in my name welcomes me."”

Children are not peripheral — they are central to the kingdom. A society's treatment of its most vulnerable reveals its true values. The constitutional principle that children's best interests are paramount reflects this biblical priority.

Matthew 19:14 (NET)

“But Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me and do not try to stop them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."”

Jesus specifically overruled his own disciples to prioritise children's access. Those with power who use it to keep children away from what they need — education, care, protection — are on the wrong side of this text.

Mark 9:42 (NET)

“"If anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone tied around his neck and to be thrown into the sea."”

The consequences Jesus describes for harming children are among the most severe in his teaching. Physical, sexual, and emotional abuse of children is not only a constitutional and criminal violation — it is among the most serious moral transgressions Scripture identifies.

Ephesians 6:4 (NET)

“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but raise them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

Parents are stewards, not owners, of their children. The parental role is framed in terms of responsibility toward the child — not authority over the child. Provoking, harming, or neglecting children violates the parental calling as Scripture defines it.

Psalm 127:3 (NET)

“Yes, sons are a gift from the LORD; the fruit of the womb is a reward.”

Children are described as gifts and rewards — language that carries the responsibility of care and stewardship. A gift is to be valued and protected, not exploited or traded.

In South African Law — Children's Act 38 of 2005

Section 28 of the Constitution and the Children's Act together establish that the best interests of the child are paramount in every matter concerning a child. Children have the right to family care, basic nutrition, shelter, health care, and protection from maltreatment, neglect, abuse, and degradation. Corporal punishment in schools is absolutely prohibited (Schools Act Section 10). Child labour that endangers development or education is a constitutional violation.

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Your Legal Right in South Africa

Corporal Punishment at School Is Illegal

If a teacher or school has physically punished your child — corporal punishment is illegal in South African schools and you have the right to report it.

What to Do — Step by Step →

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Bible support corporal punishment of children?

The "rod" passages in Proverbs (13:24, 22:15, 23:13–14) are frequently cited to justify corporal punishment. However, in South African law, corporal punishment in schools is absolutely prohibited by Section 10 of the Schools Act — there are no religious exceptions. Many biblical scholars also argue the "rod" referred to a shepherd's guiding rod, not a punishment implement. The legal prohibition stands regardless of interpretation.

What rights does a child have if their parents are abusing them?

Every child in South Africa has the right to report abuse, to be removed to a place of safety, and to have the state intervene to protect them. Any person — including a teacher, neighbour, or family member — who knows of child abuse has a duty to report it to SAPS or Social Development. The child can also approach the Children's Court directly.

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