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To: CynicalBear

I am not Catholic, but here is an explanation from WELS that clearly points infant baptism as scriptural.

We baptize babies because they are included in the Great Commission, which is a general command, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19, also see Mark 16:15-16).

Scripture does not exclude infants from baptism, rather it indicates that they need to be baptized because they are conceived and born in sin, and they need to be born again to enter the kingdom of God (Psalm 51:5, John 3:5-6). Through Baptism the Holy Spirit works to create or strengthen faith and brings the gifts of forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation (Titus 3:4-7, 1 Peter 3:21, Acts 2:38-39). We should never deprive children of baptism, “the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”

On the day of Pentecost when Peter told the gathered crowd, “Repent and be baptized.” He also said, “The promise is for you and your children” (Acts 2:38-39). Children were included in the command and promise Peter spoke. St. Paul draws a parallel between Old Testament circumcision and Baptism (Colossians 2:11-12). Babies in the Old Testament were to be circumcised on the eighth day after birth.


176 posted on 11/05/2011 7:44:23 AM PDT by Vegasrugrat
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To: Vegasrugrat; CynicalBear; boatbums; metmom

The Lutherans correctly believe in infant baptism, the Baptists do not. both claim to follow “sola scriptura”.
the Scriptures are silent on the issue, although the verses you post can be read to support infant baptism.

the only way we can know for sure whether infant baptism is correct or not is to follow the teaching authority of the Church.
the Church has been here for 2,000 years and it knows what doctrines it received from the Apostles. the Universal Church from the beginning has always practiced infant baptism and the ECF testify they received the practice from the Apostles.

can anyone imagine the great hue and cry that would ensue if a Baptist minister was to baptize a baby in front on his conregation??? he would be declared a heretic and fired on the spot!!
why do we think it would be any different in the 1st, 2nd or 3rd century?
search Church History far and wide, you will find no arguement or disagreement on infant baptism.
that is, until the 16th century.


183 posted on 11/05/2011 8:17:36 AM PDT by one Lord one faith one baptism
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To: Vegasrugrat; CynicalBear

You do know, don’t you, that circumcision never saved anyone either.


192 posted on 11/05/2011 9:02:51 AM PDT by metmom (For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore & do not submit again to a yoke of slavery)
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