If, in the case of the worst sinners and those who…
“If, in the case of the worst sinners and those who formerly sinned much against God, when afterwards they believe, the remission of their sins is granted and no one is held back from baptism and grace, how much more, then, should an infant not be held back, who, having but recently been born, has done no sin, except that, born of the flesh according to Adam, he has contracted the contagion of that old death from his first being born. For this very reason does he [an infant] approach more easily to receive the remission of sins: because the sins forgiven him are not his own but those of another”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Infants, untainted by personal sin, are readily granted forgiveness, illustrating that grace is not earned by deeds.
In simple terms: Grace is given, not earned.
Key Takeaway
Embrace divine grace.
Themes
theology
grace
innocence
Mood
contemplative
solemn
Type
religious
theological
When to use this quote
- baptism
- spiritual counseling
- faith education
Key Concepts
original sin
salvation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view shape attitudes toward moral accountability?
- What role does personal effort play in spiritual life?
A Different Perspective
Human effort cannot earn salvation; reliance on grace may diminish personal responsibility.