From Infancy

“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:14-15)

Many Christians are taught that there is an “age of accountability” that young people have to reach before they are held accountable for their sins or are able to believe in Jesus. There’s disagreement on what that age of accountability is. Some say as early as age 7. Others choose an older age like 14.

Which is correct? Neither! Instead, when did Timothy first know the Holy Scriptures? “From infancy.” According to the Bible, Timothy believed in his Savior from the time he was a baby. The idea of an “age of accountability” is not biblical. In fact, it directly contradicts Jesus’ teaching that everyone must have the faith of a little child to enter heaven (Matthew 18:2-4). Far from being incapable of faith, the Bible points to little children as examples of faith for the rest of us. Little children are the best trusters of all!

So don’t wait to share God’s Word with little children. Don’t think they have to grow older before they learn about Jesus. Start from infancy like Timothy’s mother and grandmother did. Earlier in 2 Timothy, we heard, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also” (2 Timothy 2:5). Timothy’s mother Eunice and his grandmother Lois told him Bible stories and taught him God’s truth. When? From infancy!

What good was that going to do? How can little children comprehend the deep truths of God? That doesn’t seem to make logical sense. Hold on… Faith isn’t based on our intelligence. Trust in Jesus has nothing to do with our mental capacity or will power. On the contrary, the Holy Scriptures “are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” Faith in Jesus is God’s gift through his Word.

What little child could you encourage in his or her faith today? What young family could you help to teach their children God’s Word? You never know how God might use those seeds of faith. No one is too young to hear the Holy Scriptures. Start from infancy!

Dear heavenly Father, please grant me the faith of a little child. Through your Word, instill a deep trust in Jesus in my heart, and use me to share your Word with others, beginning in infancy. Amen.

Pastor Nathan