But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. —Mark 10:14 KJV

Grown Ups 2 is a sequel to a raunchy comedy from 2010. Both films star some of today’s biggest comedians, including Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, David Spade and Kevin James. The story in the original film has this group of adult friends getting together for a fun, reunion weekend, and of course, hijinks ensue. Grown Ups 2 features the same group of friends as they decide to live in the same town in which they grew up to raise their kids. Once again, shenanigans ensue.

Although the film may not really be worth sitting down and watching for two hours, there are some topics that Christians can think about and discuss in regards to the plot and the characters. One of the main themes in both films is the idea that there is a child inside all of us. This inner child is something that we often have to keep hidden while we handle our adult responsibilities. But, every now and then we just have to let it out––and there is nothing wrong with that.

As a matter of fact, it is healthy to cut loose and have some fun every once and a while; as long as you do it responsibly – and legally. Children, and the idea of being as innocent as a child, are illustrations used quite often in the Bible. Why? Because we can all relate to that. We were all children once and oftentimes as adults, we long to be that carefree and innocent again.

Jesus said, “Let the children come to me.” Just because they are young and have much to learn about the world does not mean they cannot love Jesus or understand what He did to save them from sin. We must let the children go to Jesus from a young age. After all, why would you ever want to prevent someone from knowing Jesus?

But as many as received him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. —John 1:12 KJV

Over and over again the Bible calls Christians “children of God” or “sons of God.” Do you think it is by accident the image of children is consistently used?

The idea that God is your Father should be overwhelmingly peaceful and wonderful. Not only did He create you in His image, but He also cares for you as His children. Think of the other religions that include some deity that either created or has power over humans. Does any other religion have its god figure treating humans as children? Do other gods say, “Let the children come to me”? Brothers and sisters, you only find that in one place: the arms of Jesus Christ.

Grown Ups 2 is a silly movie about silly guys who just don’t want to grow up. They don’t want to let go of their past; they want to relive their childhood. When you have Jesus as your own personal Savior who calls you His son or His daughter, who would ever want to grow up?

Children are innocent. Children are pure. Children are taken care of by parents. Children have no worries. Children get to just have fun and enjoy life. Praise God, Christians get to be children for all eternity!

At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. —Matthew 18:1-3 KJV

Grown Ups 2 is rated PG-13 with pretty strong language and suggestive jokes. There is also some brief male rear nudity. Parents should strongly heed the content warnings on this film and bypass this summer..

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