In
considering the departures of the doctrines of "original sin"
and "infant baptism," today's article will consist mainly of
quotes from man's creed books.
"Baptism,
nowadays, is given almost exclusively to children" (Our
Priesthood, Bruneau, p. 154). "Christ has commanded that little
children should be brought to him and we obey this command by baptizing
them and teaching them" (Lutheran Catechism, Stump, p.146).
"They (the children) have inherited a sinful heart, and the germs
of sin in them will soon grow" (Lutheran Catechism, Stump,
p. 146). Infants of one or both believing parents are to be baptized (Presbyterian
Confession of Faith, chapter 30, p. 157). The Westminster Assembly,
1643-9, voted to drop dipping (for baptism) and to retain sprinkling.
Infants are born in sin, in a state of sin, inherited from their
parents..."being by nature born in sin and the children of
wrath" (J. P. Norris, Catechism and Prayer Book, pp. 51,62).
"Let every adult person, and the parents of every child to be
baptized, have the choice of sprinkling, pouring, or immersion"
(Harmon, p. 3, Doctrines and Discipline of the Methodist Church).
"The baptism of infants" is justified on the basis that Jesus
said, 'Suffer the children to come unto me'" (parents of the infant
are duty bound to teach the infant after baptism, concerning "our
faith" (Harmon, Doctrines and Discipline of the Methodist Church,
article, 1910, p. 470-471). It is interesting to note that the Eastern
Orthodox Churches immerse infants.
In
closing this article, let's look again at what the Bible says about who
is a candidate for baptism: it is for those who have been taught
(Matthew 28:19,20), who believe (Mark 16:15,16), have repented (Acts
2:38); and have confessed with the mouth that Jesus is the Son of God
(Acts 8:37). Let's review briefly the mode and purpose of baptism: 1- it
is a burial, a planting (Romans 6:3-5); 2-it is in water (Acts 8:35-38);
3-it is for the remission of sins (1 Peter 3:21; Acts 22:16); 4-it is
the act that puts one into Christ (Galatians 3:27).
Unfortunately, there are many other departures to consider. Continue reading; more importantly, continue studying your Bible!
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