The topic of infants in faith encompasses various theological discussions and biblical references concerning the spiritual status, significance, and treatment of infants within the Christian faith. This entry explores the biblical basis for understanding infants in the context of faith, their role in the covenant community, and the implications for Christian practice.

Biblical References and Theological Considerations

1. Innocence and Sin Nature: The Bible acknowledges the innocence of infants while also affirming the doctrine of original sin. Psalm 51:5 states, "Surely I was brought forth in iniquity; I was sinful when my mother conceived me." This verse highlights the belief that all humans, including infants, inherit a sinful nature from Adam. However, infants are often viewed as innocent in terms of personal sin, as they have not yet reached an age of moral accountability.

2. Jesus and Children: Jesus' attitude towards children is a significant aspect of understanding infants in faith. 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 underscores the value and importance of children in the eyes of God and suggests that they hold a special place in the kingdom of heaven.

3. Covenant Community: In the Old Testament, infants were included in the covenant community of Israel through the rite of circumcision, as seen in Genesis 17:12 : "For the generations to come, every male among you who is eight days old must be circumcised." This inclusion signifies that infants are part of God's covenant people, a principle that some Christian traditions extend to the practice of infant baptism as a sign of the new covenant.

4. Faith and Salvation: The question of infants' salvation is a topic of theological debate. Some Christians believe that God's grace covers infants who die before reaching an age of accountability, trusting in God's mercy and justice. This view is often supported by passages that emphasize God's love and care for the innocent, such as Matthew 18:14 : "In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish."

5. Parental Responsibility: Scripture places a strong emphasis on the responsibility of parents to raise their children in the faith. Proverbs 22:6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." Ephesians 6:4 further instructs, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." These verses highlight the role of parents in nurturing the spiritual development of their children from infancy.

6. Spiritual Symbolism: Infants are often used symbolically in Scripture to represent purity, humility, and dependence on God. In 1 Peter 2:2 , believers are encouraged to "crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation." This metaphor suggests that, like infants, Christians should have a humble and dependent attitude towards God, seeking spiritual nourishment and growth.

The topic of infants in faith invites believers to consider the profound mystery of God's grace and the role of the youngest members in the faith community. Through biblical teachings and theological reflection, Christians are called to cherish, nurture, and include infants as integral parts of the body of Christ.