How do you know when your child is old enough to be baptized? Whenever I hear the question, I immediately know that the person asking already understands much of what the Bible says concerning baptism. It means they know that the Bible clearly teaches that baptism saves (cf. 1 Pet. 3:21). It also means that they know that children do not need baptism until they reach the “age of accountability” (cf. Ezek. 18:19-20; Jas. 4:17; Matt. 18:3). It also means that they truly want their child to go to heaven. So, how do you know when they are old enough?
The basis for our answer is found right at the beginning of the church in Acts 2. In verses 36-38, Peter tells the Jews assembled at Pentecost, “Therefore, let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Men and brethren, what shall we do?’ Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…’” Here we can see the parameters for baptism. To be baptized there must be guilt, sorrow for that guilt, a change of mind toward guilt, and the understanding of baptism’s ability to remove that guilt. So, here are some questions to ask that will help you know if they are old enough.
First, is your child guilty of the blood of Jesus Christ? In 1 Corinthians 15:3, the Bible says, “…Christ died for our sins…” If Jesus died for sins, then someone is only guilty if they have sins. We already referenced James 4:17 in regard to the “age of accountability.” The Scripture says, “…to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.” So, a child becomes guilty of sin when they understand the difference between right and wrong. Before this, they are innocent.
Second, does your child regret their sins and want to change? 2 Corinthians 7:10 says, “For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation…” It is one thing to understand right from wrong. It is another thing to feel regret for wrongdoing and then decide to live differently. They cannot be saved without repenting.
Third, does your child understand the purpose of baptism? Acts 22:16 shows us that baptism washes away sins. A child that is ready for baptism understands why they are doing it. Otherwise, it is a purposeless act. They cannot be baptized if they are not able to describe a biblical understanding of it.
Is your child old enough to be baptized? There is a lot more to be said on this topic, but these three questions are a biblical starting point. If you work hard to know your children well, then the answers will come easily.