Baptism and the Age of Accountability: An Evangelical Christian Perspective
> Baptism is a significant rite within Christianity, symbolizing the believer’s faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. However, views on baptism, including its mode, meaning, and the appropriate candidates for baptism, can vary among different Christian denominations. Mormons, or members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, have distinct beliefs and practices regarding baptism that differ from those of many evangelical Christians. This article will explore the evangelical Christian perspective on baptism in response to a question posed by a Mormon.
The Evangelical Christian View of Baptism:
- Baptism as an Ordinance:
Evangelical Christians view baptism as an ordinance instituted by Jesus Christ. It is a symbolic act of obedience that publicly declares one’s faith in Jesus and identification with Him. Baptism does not confer salvation but is an outward sign of an inward change that has already occurred through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). - Believer’s Baptism:
The predominant view among evangelicals is “believer’s baptism,” which holds that only those who have made a personal profession of faith in Jesus Christ should be baptized. This view is supported by passages such as Acts 2:38 and Acts 8:12, where baptism follows an individual’s decision to believe in Jesus. - The Mode of Baptism:
While there is some diversity among evangelical Christians regarding the mode of baptism, many prefer immersion, as it is seen as the closest representation of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus (Romans 6:3-4). However, other modes such as pouring or sprinkling are also practiced within some evangelical circles. - The Age of Accountability:
Evangelical Christians typically believe in the concept of an “age of accountability,” which is the age at which a person becomes morally responsible for their actions and is capable of making a genuine commitment to Christ. The specific age can vary among individuals, and there is no explicit biblical age set. As a result, baptism is generally reserved for those who are old enough to understand the gospel and make a conscious decision to follow Jesus.
The LDS Perspective on Baptism:
- Baptism for the Remission of Sins:
Mormons view baptism as a requirement for salvation and the remission of sins. It is considered the first saving ordinance of the gospel and is necessary to become a member of the LDS Church. - Baptism of Children:
Mormons practice baptism of children at the age of eight, which they believe to be the age of accountability. This is based on their interpretation of Book of Mormon passages such as Moroni 8:10-12, which discourage infant baptism and declare eight as the age when children are capable of moral responsibility. - Authority to Baptize:
The LDS Church teaches that baptism must be performed by someone holding the proper priesthood authority, which they believe was restored through Joseph Smith. This authority is seen as essential for a valid baptism.
Engaging in Dialogue:
When discussing baptism with Mormon friends, evangelical Christians can express their understanding of baptism as a symbolic act that follows an individual’s personal decision to trust in Christ for salvation. They can share biblical examples of baptism as a public profession of faith by believers, emphasizing the importance of personal belief prior to baptism.
Christians can also explain their views on the age of accountability, clarifying that while the Bible does not prescribe a specific age, the principle is inferred from the need for personal faith and repentance in the New Testament examples of baptism.
It is also helpful to recognize and respect the differences in the LDS approach to baptism, including the significance of the age of eight and the emphasis on priesthood authority. By doing so, Christians can engage in respectful and meaningful conversations about the theological underpinnings of their baptismal practices.
Conclusion:
Evangelical Christians hold to believer’s baptism, emphasizing that it is an ordinance for those who have made a conscious decision to follow Jesus Christ. Baptism is seen as a symbolic act rather than a means of salvation, and the age at which it is appropriate is linked to an individual’s ability to understand and profess faith in Christ. In contrast, Mormons practice baptism at the age of eight, viewing it as necessary for the remission of sins and entrance into the church, and they emphasize the need for proper priesthood authority. Understanding these distinct perspectives allows for thoughtful dialogue between evangelical Christians and Mormons on the subject of baptism and the age of accountability.
