Bible Q&A
Are you affiliated with the international churches of Christ?
Also, how old does a child have to be in order to be baptized?
Thanks for the question.
No, we are not affiliated with any other church. All the churches of Christ are independent, i.e. autonomous. However there are other independent assemblies that we recognize as fellow brothers in Christ.
The age for one to become a Christian is a matter of judgement. Some very precocious children seem very much aware of what they are doing and have a good understanding of their faith. I have found that to be rare, however. Most people that I have talked to, will usually put the early age at around 12 years old and up. However, that depends very much on the child.
I was baptized at the age of 12, and looking back, I had no idea what I was doing. I just didn't want to be left behind when all my friends were doing it. So at the age of 21 when I was really searching for God, I was immersed for the right reasons and for the right faith.
The parent and child should sit down with an elder, preacher or teacher and discuss it to make a fair decision.
I have usually not judged people's hearts at all, which only God can do without error. And so just quizzed the person about their faith and motives and then went from there.
Jesus said, "Allow the little children to come to me, for of such is the kingdom of heaven." Matt.19:14
Those in the kingdom are trusting like children, but they have the understanding of grown men. So most children have the trust that is needed but usually do not understand what they are doing.
I do not believe that children are in any danger of eternal judgement, so there really is no rush. But we do not want to discourage faith and obedience. I have found that the age at which most people start asking the right questions and searching for meaning and for God is in the late teens. Some older, some younger.
Bottom line I suppose is that the parent must make the judgement call. They know their child best. Sorry to throw it back on you, but that is the reality of it.
Visit us when you can,
Larry White
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