Hi Jeff,

On 12/13/05, Jeff Hallmark <bc_preacher@...> wrote:

> Our altar call or invitation to deal with one's soul is 24 / 7.
>
>  I have had folks in the middle of preaching come forward seeking help for
> their soul.
>

Of course our altar is always open as well.  I mention the SBC
practice of an closing altar call only because it is sometimes implied
that children come forward out of peer pressure or simply because
that's "what we do" at our churches.  The concern that we might
baptize someone who doesn't really understand salvation or the
symbolism of the ordinance is the reason behind the class that my wife
and I teach.

>
> Refresh my memory, which scriptures supports electing infants?

Well, I was thinking immediately of 1 Sam 12:23 in the context of our
conversation.  But now that I reflect a bit, the entire doctrine of
election supports it.  Paul often spoke of our election "before we
were born" (cf. Gal 1:15, Rom 9:10-18 (especially v. 11)).  John also
spoke of the our names being written in the Lamb's Book of Life
"before the foundation of the world." (Rev 13:8).  Similarly, Paul
says that Christ chose us "before the foundation of the world" and
"predestined us for adoption" (Eph 1:4-5).

I don't want this discussion to turn in to a debate on election,
however.  I just see the doctrine as supporting the salvation of
infants.  I don't see how someone who  believes in libertarian
free-will and sola fide can also believe in the salvation of infants.

I'm not saying that you are either an Arminian or libertarian, Jeff. 
Nor am I saying that is a bad thing if you are.  I'm just trying to
understand the position on this issue for someone who is Arminian and
libertarian.  I am also asking if the position I described (God elects
infants who die) conflicts with sola fide and if so, I'll have to look
for another answer to this question.
>
>  (if you are a first year you already know everything B-) smiley face
> w/glasses),
>
> and seeking to learn and to be taught the things of our Lord.
>
Ha!  I don't even know what year I am in. :-)  I'm Tri-vocational at
the moment (going to school, teaching Economics, and working
full-time).  It's going to take me a loooonnnnggg time to finish my
M.Div. at this rate.  I'm praying that the Lord will open up an
opportunity to serve full-time while I finish school.


> God bless  jeff

God bless you too, brother.



--

Grace and peace,
Kevin Sigafoos
---------------------
For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be
glory forever. Amen. (Rom 11:36)