Nuanced
Sin nature inherited; infants innocent; guilt comes from personal sin
The ICOC, consistent with the broader Churches of Christ tradition, rejects Augustinian inherited guilt. Infants are not guilty of sin and are in a saved state until they reach an age of accountability. Each person becomes guilty through their own sins. Humans inherit a weakened nature prone to sin (the results of the Fall) but not Adam's specific guilt.
This rejection of inherited guilt provides the theological basis for the ICOC's rejection of infant baptism: since infants are not guilty, they do not need baptism for the forgiveness of sins. Baptism is for those who have sinned and who choose to respond in repentance and faith.
Key Distinctions
- Doctrine type:
- inherited depravity — sinful tendencies and corruption inherited; guilt views vary
- Free will effect:
- will unable to turn to God without enabling grace
- Infant guilt:
- depends on tradition — many hold infants are safe; some affirm inherited guilt
Scripture References
Sources
- ICOC Statement of Belief
- Gordon Ferguson, Prepared to Answer (1995)