The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Saved and NOT know it ???

Robin,

Yes, Calvinists although divided on the matter of the salvation of infants or elect infants, all agree that there is a distinction to be made between infants and adults. I personally hold that the Spirit of God communicates to infants who are saved (elect infants which do not include all covenant children or even just covenant children for God's election is Unconditional) a knowledge of Christ and imparts to them a new nature which unites with Christ effecting their salvation.

However, for children and adults "cognition" is most necessary. But in opposition to those who hold to Sandemanianism (Easy Believism) to one degree or another, it is not enough to have simple knowledge of the Gospel and/or Christ to be saved. One's entire being must be changed, i.e., one's mind, emotions and will must be involved. This is what regeneration accomplishes. In regeneration a new nature is created. The soul is "resurrected", made alive so that the sinner is made able to love the Lord God with all one's heart, mind, soul and strength, which is required of God. But to do what the law requires in this regard, one must first be reconciled to God through the one Mediator, the Lord Jesus Christ Who paid the penalty required by law and Whose righteousness must be imputed; justification.

We do have a few exceptions given to us in Scripture, e.g., Jeremiah and John the Baptist who were regenerated in the womb vs. the rest of mankind (elect) who are regenerated after birth in God's good time according to His purpose. But in all cases, the regeneration effects the whole being and not just the mind.

In His grace,