Posted by Khew Chee Keong (202.166.126.228) on January 22, 2003 at 19:41:52:
Hi, Elder Yong. Would like to ask about the signifiance of baptism of infants.
I once heard from my Pastor that sins can be classified into two kinds: Original sin( inherited from Adam) and i do not know what is in in English but in Mandarin, the other is called "ben3 zui4" ( i.e. sin that is committed when one has the will or consciousness, in this case, infant do not develop that ability yet)
He mentioned that by letting an infant be baptised, we are giving a precious gift in advance to the infant i.e. Salvation. By doing this act, the infant is not prone to the effects of the original sin.. ( i can't recall the actual verse my Pastor uses)
Yesterday i brought out the matter to my fellow bros and sis and we had some different opinions.. i myself have not found an answer yet.
Another question is: Some churches are against the baptism of infants as they claim that infants do not have the will or consciousness yet, so it is inappropriate to do so. Is that correct? i mean, in accordance with the Bible?
Would hope you could enlighten me. Thks and Take care.
God Bless,
zhiqiang