Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Overview:Infant salvation refers to the theological concept concerning the eternal destiny of infants who die before reaching an age of moral accountability. This topic has been a subject of theological discussion and debate within Christianity, particularly concerning the nature of original sin, the necessity of baptism, and the grace of God. Biblical Basis: The Bible does not explicitly address the fate of infants who die, but several passages are often cited to infer principles related to their salvation. 1. Original Sin and Accountability: · Romans 5:12 states, "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned." This verse is foundational for the doctrine of original sin, suggesting that all humans inherit a sinful nature due to Adam's transgression. · However, the concept of an "age of accountability" is derived from passages like Deuteronomy 1:39, which refers to children as those "who today have no knowledge of good or evil." 2. God’s Grace and Mercy: · In 2 Samuel 12:23, after the death of his infant son, David expresses hope, saying, "But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me." This is often interpreted as David's belief in the child's presence with God. · Jesus' attitude towards children is significant. In Mark 10:14, Jesus says, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." This passage is frequently cited to suggest that children are under God's special care. 3. Baptism and Salvation: · The necessity of baptism for salvation is a debated topic. Acts 2:38 emphasizes repentance and baptism for the forgiveness of sins, but the application to infants is not directly addressed. · Some traditions hold that baptism removes original sin, while others believe that God's grace covers those unable to make a personal decision, such as infants. Theological Perspectives: 1. Augustinian View: · St. Augustine argued that unbaptized infants are subject to original sin and thus not saved, emphasizing the necessity of baptism for salvation. 2. Reformed Tradition: · Many within the Reformed tradition believe in the election of infants who die, trusting in God's sovereign grace. They often cite God's covenant promises to believers and their children (Genesis 17:7). 3. Catholic and Orthodox Views: · The Catholic Church traditionally taught the concept of "limbo" for unbaptized infants, though this is not an official doctrine. The Orthodox Church emphasizes God's mercy and the mystery of His will. 4. Evangelical Perspective: · Many evangelicals hold that infants who die are saved by God's grace, based on His character as loving and just. They often appeal to the nature of God as revealed in Scripture, trusting in His mercy and justice. Pastoral Considerations: The question of infant salvation is deeply pastoral, often arising in contexts of grief and loss. Pastors and theologians emphasize the importance of trusting in God's character, His love, and His justice. They encourage believers to find comfort in the assurance of God's goodness and the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Conclusion: While the Bible does not provide a definitive answer regarding the salvation of infants, the overarching themes of God's grace, mercy, and love offer hope and comfort to those grappling with this profound question. Topical Bible Verses Matthew 18:14Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish. Topicalbible.org Jeremiah 1:5 1 Corinthians 7:14 Psalm 58:3 Titus 3:5 Romans 6:23 Luke 1:15 2 Corinthians 5:10 Psalm 51:5 Romans 5:12 Library Infant Salvation Christian Baptism. All that is Born of the Flesh must be Born of the Spirit. The Confession of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. AD 1829 ... INDEX TO VOL. I. The Westminster Standards in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Zwingli's Distinctive Doctrines. The Bereavements of the Christian Home. [A] Infant Baptism. The Augsburg Confession, 1530. Resources What does the Bible say about infant baptism / paedobaptism? | GotQuestions.orgIs christening in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible teach believer's baptism/credobaptism? | GotQuestions.org Infant: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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