The PuritanBoard - View Single Post - To what extent should Baptism extend to children of believers?

larryjf · #19 (**permalink**) 05-22-2008, 09:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Daniel Ritchie

Quote:

Originally Posted by larryjf

Quote:

Originally Posted by Daniel Ritchie

This is a complex question, though it is worth keeping in mind that it is one the people in the OT would also have had to grapple with when a pagan - who professed faith in the God of Israel - wished to join the church. It would appear from our Lord's example in Luke 2 that children did not partake of the passover until 12 (or is it 13?), so perhaps that gives us some indication.

The tradition was to go up and take part in the fastings, to learn a trade, etc. at 12; then at 13 they were considered an adult.

Luke 2 says that Jesus was 12, but it doesn't say that it was the first time they went to participate in Passover. Besides, that's a question more for the Lord's Supper than Baptism.

Does the text not indicate though that that was the first time Christ went with his parents? If there has to be a 'cut off' point for children receiving baptism why not make it here?

And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. (Luk 2:42)

It doesn't appear to me to state that it was His first time at passover. It seems to simply indicate that at this particular trip He was 12. Most likely to contrast His age and understanding with that of the doctors He was conversing with.

In 2:40 we are told of His wisdom, in 2:42 we are told of His young age, in 2:47 we are told that the doctors were were astonished at His understanding.

Even if it was His first time, it has nothing to do with Baptism as Christ would have been circumcised as a baby.