The Highway Forums General Discussion Open Forum Babies, toddlers and the mentally retarded

All of those texts deal directly and specifically in regard to those who are NOT "unborn, infants, mentally retarded, etc." but rather to those who are physically/mentally capable of hearing and comprehending the Gospel. The answer to your question is found in the fact that no one is capable of hearing, never mind believing upon Christ unless they are "born again" (aka: regenerated). It is from the newly (re)created nature that the ability to hear (inward call; irresistible grace) and believe flow. In "normal" individuals, this regeneration is outwardly expressed by a profession of faith and a life which evidences that faith. However, in the case of those individuals you have asked about, the outward expressions of regeneration will not be evident. Yet, the lack of outward, physical expressions does not in any way negate the reality of regeneration, for that is the sole and sovereign work of the Holy Spirit. It is the union of the soul with Christ and the application of His atonement that saves.

I freely admit that how the actual union with Christ of the soul of an unborn child is a "mystery". Yet it would be foolish, IMHO, to deny that it can take place, for we are dealing foremost with spiritual matters that are not perceptible to the physical eye. As Jesus explained to Nicodemus in regard to regeneration, it is something beyond the perception and experience of a human being, yet it is undeniably happens. We only perceive the results.

Hopefully, this will answer your question(s)? <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

In His Grace,