Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Those who die in infancy
Very interesting discussion going on at Tim Challies blog regarding the state of children who die in infancy, The Religious Hell Hole. It is an emotional issue, especially for those who have lost a child in this way. The comments reflect an interesting mindset from those who have a hard time reconciling the problem of the general silence of the Bible when it comes to the state of those who die in infancy. We need to think these issues through, and do so in a way that is compassionate but also recognizes the sovereignty of God.
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8 comments:
Arthur, you posted this at Challies blog:
"BTW Joshua, your idea of covenant succession flies in the face of reality, a reality where many, many children of Christian parents end up not being elect and many who are born to unbelieving parents turn out to be elect. Or does covenant succession only last until a certain age? We are not saved through our parentage and the children of unbelievers are sinners in need of salvation, born in original sin, just like the children of unbelievers."
It appears that you haven't read enough on Covenant Succession to even recognize what the doctrine states or entails. Or, having read, you have failed to understand.
For example, presumptive regeneration of covenant children does not imply that ALL covenant children shall be saved, nor does it imply that ALL those who are regenerated are regenerated in their infancy.
You would do well to continue reading rather than making foolish assertions.
Joshua,
Thank you for your comment.
I would like to point out that not agreeing with you is not tantamount to not understanding what you said.
Arthur,
You're welcome for the comments.
If you read again, I never questioned your comprehension of my statements, but rather your comprehension of the Doctrine of Covenant Succession.
This isn't about understanding me, but about understanding the doctrine as it is revealed in Scripture. I'm not headhunting here, but hoping you'll read further into the doctrine.
We (Lutherans) baptize infants because they have the same problem everyone else has.
We know (from Acts 2:28) that the Holy Spirit and the forgiveness of sins is given in baptism and that the promise is for our children also.
How about children that are not baptized?
What kind of a God do we have? We pray that He would show mercy to the little ones who have not received the gift of Holy Baptism.
Joshua,
I read the article by Raymond on this issue. I have quite a few comments on both the article and the concept to come when I have a few minutes.
Steve, I don't see what Acts 2:28 has to do with baptism. Did you give the wrong citation?
Arthur,
I'm thankful you read Robert Rayburn's (not Reymond's, although there is a Robert Reymond who has a wonderful Systematic Theology) article.
I have a blog where I post my own reviews of books, and when you provide your comments on Rayburn's article I'll make it a point to interact with you here and perhaps there as time permits.
Post Tenebras Lux,
~Joshua
Acts 2:38...just like I said :D
Sorry about that Chief...
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