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I really don't have the time or desire to play games with you today. You can start by reading this post on this thread.

To: PFKEY

I have never read an example in the Bible of an infant being baptized. Do you know where this practice got started?

To answer the first question: The Bible doesn't necessarily directly speak of an infant baptism, but it clearly never speaks against infant baptism, and in fact, St. Paul endorses infant baptism.

In several instances, the Bible refers to whole households being baptized, including members of all ages. (For instance: Acts 16:15, Acts 16:33, 1 Cor 1:16)

Baptism takes the place of circumcision in the new covenant. (St. Paul talks about this: Col 2:11-12) Circumcision was, of course, for infants, and adult circucision was rare.

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the LORD our God shall call. (Acts 2:38-39)

If infant baptism weren't the rule, there should be references to the children of Christian parents joining the Church only after they had come to the age of reason, and there aren't any such records in the Bible.

More later, but I am tired.

34 posted on 06/05/2003 9:23 PM PDT by nickcarraway