Are new born babies sinners

What a thought-provoking question!

The concept of sin and salvation is a complex and debated topic in Christian theology. The Bible teaches that all humans are born with a sinful nature (Romans 5:12-19, Psalm 51:5) and that sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2, Ephesians 2:1-3).

However, when it comes to newborn babies, the question arises: Are they considered sinners in the same way as adults?

Here are some perspectives to consider:

  1. Innocence: Some argue that newborn babies are innocent and not yet aware of their sinful nature. They have not yet committed any personal sins, and their actions are not yet influenced by the fall of humanity (Genesis 3). In this view, newborn babies are not considered sinners in the classical sense.
  2. Original Sin: Others believe that newborn babies are born with the stain of original sin, inherited from Adam and Eve's disobedience (Romans 5:12-19). This perspective holds that all humans, including newborn babies, are born with a sinful nature and are separated from God as a result.
  3. Covenantal perspective: From a covenantal perspective, some theologians argue that newborn babies are not considered sinners because they are not yet under the covenant of works (the law) or the covenant of grace (salvation through faith). Instead, they are under the covenant of creation, where they are innocent and in a state of original righteousness (Genesis 1:31).
  4. Baptismal regeneration: Some Christian traditions, such as Eastern Orthodox and some Protestant denominations, believe that baptism is necessary for the remission of original sin. In this view, newborn babies are not considered sinners until they are baptized, at which point they are cleansed of original sin and become children of God.

In conclusion, while there is no clear consensus on whether newborn babies are sinners, the Bible teaches that all humans are born with a sinful nature and are separated from God. However, the specific circumstances and implications of this reality for newborn babies are subject to interpretation and debate among Christian theologians and denominations.