What does the Bible say about infant baptism? Overview of the Topic Infant baptism refers to the practice of baptizing young children, often before they are able to articulate personal faith. The question arises because Scripture features many references to baptism while saying little explicitly about the age of those baptized. Various Christian traditions have approached this differently, with some believing that baptism is a sign of entry into the covenant community from infancy, and others understanding baptism as reserved for those who have professed faith. The following sections explore key passages, historical considerations, and theological arguments related to the Bible and infant baptism. Definition and Purpose of Baptism Baptism in the New Testament centers on identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is frequently described as an outward sign of an inward reality (see Romans 6:3–4). Baptism symbolizes cleansing from sin, union with the Messiah, and entrance into the community of faith. It is also connected to the believer’s public confession of faith and repentance (Acts 2:38), underscoring the link between baptism and personal decision. Biblical Background and Practice in the Early Church 1. John the Baptist’s Ministry John baptized those who came in repentance to prepare the way for the Lord (Matthew 3:1–11). His baptism required adults to repent of sins and demonstrate a willingness to turn back to God. 2. Jesus’s Example Jesus underwent baptism as an act of obedience, fulfilling “all righteousness” (Matthew 3:13–15). This provided a model of humble submission rather than a statement on infant or adult requirements, yet it serves as the first direct indication of the spiritual significance of baptism in the Gospel accounts. 3. The Great Commission After His resurrection, Jesus commanded His disciples: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). In this statement, baptism is intertwined with making disciples. While this instruction sets the stage for widespread baptism, it does not specify the age of those being baptized. 4. Pentecost and Early Church Growth On the day of Pentecost, Peter proclaimed: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins” (Acts 2:38). In this context, repentance from sin and faith in Jesus are prerequisites. Yet it is also noted that “the promise is for you and your children” (Acts 2:39). Whether “children” here refers to young offspring in a literal sense or future generations remains a key point of discussion in this topic. New Testament “Household” Baptisms Several passages mention entire households being baptized: • House of Lydia: “When she and her household had been baptized…” (Acts 16:15). • Jailer at Philippi: “…he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household” (Acts 16:34). • Household of Stephanas: “I also baptized the household of Stephanas” (1 Corinthians 1:16). In each instance, households are baptized, but details about the presence (or absence) of infants or very young children are not explicit. Some interpret these events to suggest entire families, including infants, were baptized; others emphasize that those described are old enough to understand the gospel and believe. Arguments Cited in Favor of Infant Baptism 1. Continuity with the Abrahamic Covenant Proponents draw a parallel between Old Testament circumcision for infant males (Genesis 17:9–14) and baptism as a sign of the new covenant. Colossians 2:11–12 links circumcision and baptism in a spiritual sense—circumcision of the heart replacing the physical act—leading some to argue that children born into believing families receive the new covenant sign just as Israelite infants did. 2. Household Baptisms as Precedent The repeated references to entire “households” can be read as implying that young children were included. Since the text does not exclude them, the argument goes, it is logical to assume that all members of the household, regardless of age, were baptized. 3. Early Church Writings Post–New Testament writings, such as those by some early Church Fathers, indicate that infant baptism quickly became customary in certain regions. Archaeological evidence of ancient baptistries and inscriptions sometimes suggests that children were baptized early in church history. This tradition is seen by some scholars as consistent with the view that children were always included. Arguments Cited Against Infant Baptism 1. Need for Personal Faith and Repentance Many passages emphasize an individual’s faith and repentance as prerequisites for baptism (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). Infants cannot verbally profess faith or demonstrate repentance. This suggests that baptism follows a personal confession of trust in Christ. 2. No Direct Command or Explicit Example Scripture does not provide an explicit command to baptize infants, nor a clear case in which an infant is unmistakably mentioned as a recipient of baptism. 3. Symbol of Spiritual Rebirth Baptism is often described as a conscious participation in the death and resurrection of Christ (Romans 6:3–5). Critics of infant baptism argue that it is difficult to apply this symbolism to those who have not yet professed belief or comprehended the teaching. Relevant Theological Considerations 1. Covenant Theology vs. Believer’s Baptism Those embracing covenant theology see baptism as the new covenant sign extended to the children of believers. By contrast, adherents of “believer’s baptism” emphasize that the new covenant is inward, requiring a personal heart response signified by baptism subsequent to faith. 2. Public Testimony Aspect Baptism frequently demonstrates publicly a believer’s commitment to Christ. Since infants cannot express such a testimony, some believe a ceremony of dedication (rather than baptism) is more appropriate until the child can personally affirm faith. 3. Unity and Charity in Differences Christian tradition displays a range of convictions on infant baptism, with some interpreting Scripture and early church practices as affirming it, while others decline it in favor of baptizing professed believers only. Within many congregations, devout believers hold different viewpoints, yet share fellowship around core doctrines—especially the deity of Christ, His resurrection, and salvation by grace through faith. Historical and Manuscript Evidence Manuscript evidence for the New Testament is extensive and consistent in passages relevant to baptism. While no specific text states unequivocally “infants were baptized,” the early Greek manuscripts affirm the accounts of conversions and translations that mention entire households. Patristic sources, such as those from the second century onward, describe baptismal practices but vary in how they articulate the specific age or manner of baptizing children. Archaeological inscriptions and early Christian art often depict baptism scenes symbolically (e.g., fish, rivers, fonts) rather than specifying participant ages. These artifacts do not resolve the question definitively but show that baptism was central to early Christian identity. Conclusion The Bible itself does not explicitly address the baptism of infants, leaving questions of interpretation. Some emphasize the household baptisms of Acts, the parallel to circumcision, and the longstanding Christian tradition that includes children in the covenant sign. Others see personal repentance and faith as indispensable prerequisites, thus favoring an age or stage of accountability before baptism. Readers exploring this topic may consult the relevant New Testament passages (Acts 2:38–39; 16:15; 16:30–34; 1 Corinthians 1:16) in the Berean Standard Bible and other scholarly works examining the early church’s perspective. Whichever side is taken, it should be done with an awareness of Scripture’s emphasis on the critical nature of faith, the unity of believers, and the essential call for all—children and adults alike—to know and follow the Lord sincerely. |
    |