The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Infant Baptism Question

Johnnie,

Just so you know, I have some serious problems with Calvin's views on infant baptism. From what I have studied of Calvin's writings on this subject, I find myself at odds with his view concerning the validity of baptism performed by the apostate RCC. Calvin also believed in presumptive regeneration it seems which I strongly oppose. But to this matter of the validity of baptism, the problem I have isn't just with the one who administers it but also with the lack of a valid profession of faith of the parents who bring their children to baptism. The promise of God is to those who truly believe that their sins will be remitted as well as those of their children, should they likewise profess a true faith in Christ. It is my belief, that the promises of God are irrevocable, not excluding the promise of Acts 2:38, 39, which IMHO, interpreted rightly is addressed to the elect, "as many as the Lord our God shall call". Thus, the validity of baptism in not applicable to unbelievers; particularly to those who have not made a profession of faith.

On a personal note, I was baptized as an infant in a liberal Methodist church. My parents were not and never became believers. Thus, I chose to be (re)baptized after I was converted, believing that my first baptism was actually no baptism at all. As you would rightly surmise, I do not believe that a simple recitation of the Tridentine formula has any efficacy any more than does the preaching of the Gospel, in and of itself. It is the Holy Spirit alone that has the power and it is He alone Who works in the hearts of those who have been called of God. But again, the promise which is annexed to baptism belongs to the elect only. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

In His Grace,