Matthew 19:13 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Then were there brought unto him little children— Grotius observes, that it was a custom with the Jews to bring their children to persons of remarkable sanctity, to receive their blessing, and to enjoy the benefit of their prayers; a custom which is preserved among them to this day. The imposition of hands was a ceremony with which the ancient prophets always accompanied their prayers in behalf of others. This action of our Saviour might be performed only in compliance with the above-mentioned custom; yet there are others who imagine that these children were brought by certain persons, who, seeing the many wonders performed by Christ, thought perhaps that his power would be effectual in preventing, as in removing distempers; and therefore proposed to get their little ones secured by his prayers from all harms. Whatever was their design the disciples rebuked them; apprehending them too troublesome, and thinking it beneath the dignity of so great a prophet, to concern himself about such little creatures, who were incapable of receiving any instruction from him. Wetstein thinks that, being deeply engaged in the discourse concerningmatrimony,andhavingmanycuriousquestionstoproposeto their Master, they were displeased to be thus unseasonably interrupted.