If you have ever lost a child, you may have wondered what happens to their soul after death.
The question of whether children go to heaven has been asked by many people throughout history.
While the Bible does not provide a clear answer to this question, several passages suggest that children who die before reaching the age of accountability may go to heaven.
One of the most commonly cited passages on this topic is found in Matthew 19:14. In this verse, Jesus says, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
This statement suggests that children are welcome in heaven, but it does not provide a definitive answer to the question of whether all children go to heaven.
Another passage that is often cited in this discussion is found in 2 Samuel 12:23. In this verse, King David speaks about his infant son who died, saying, “But now he is dead.
Why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me.” Some interpret this passage to mean that David believed his son was in heaven and that he would be reunited with him there someday.
Nevertheless, others argue that this passage does not necessarily prove that all children go to heaven.
Theological Perspectives on Children and Heaven
When it comes to the question of whether do children go to heaven, there are different theological perspectives on the matter.
Here are some key points to consider:
Original Sin and Accountability
The concept of original sin is central to many theological perspectives on the issue of children and heaven.
According to this doctrine, all humans are born with a sinful nature inherited from Adam and Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden. This means that even infants are born with a tendency towards sin.
Yet, the question of accountability is more complicated. Some argue that children cannot be held accountable for their sins until they reach a certain age, while others believe that they are accountable from birth.
Age of Accountability and Scripture
The idea of an age of accountability is not explicitly mentioned in scripture, but some theologians point to passages such as Deuteronomy 1:39 and Isaiah 7:16 as evidence that God does not hold young children accountable for their sins.
There is no consensus on what this age might be. Some suggest that it is around the age of 12, while others believe it is when a child is capable of understanding the difference between right and wrong.
Salvation and the Innocence of Children
Many Christians believe that salvation is available to all, including children who have died before reaching an age of accountability.
This is based on the idea that God is merciful and just and that he would not condemn innocent children to hell.
However, there is also debate about whether children who die before being baptized or professing faith in Jesus can be saved.
Biblical Passages Related to Children’s Afterlife
When it comes to the question of whether children go to heaven, the Bible provides some insights that can help us understand the topic better.
Here are a few passages that shed light on the subject:
David and His Child: 2 Samuel 12:23
After David’s child with Bathsheba became ill, David fasted and prayed for the child’s recovery.
Nevertheless, the child eventually died, and David’s servants were afraid to tell him. When David realized what had happened, he said, “Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he will not return to me” (2 Samuel 12:23).
This passage suggests that David believed that he would be reunited with his child in the afterlife.
While this verse doesn’t explicitly mention heaven, it does imply that there is a place where David’s child has gone and where David will eventually join him.
Jesus’ Teachings on Children: Matthew 18:14
Jesus had a special love for children, and he often used them as examples of the kind of faith that pleases God.
In Matthew 18:14, Jesus says, “So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.”
This verse suggests that God has a special concern for children and that he desires for them to be saved.
While it doesn’t explicitly say that all children go to heaven, it does imply that God’s desire is for all children to be saved.
Old Testament Insights: Deuteronomy 1:39
In Deuteronomy 1:39, Moses tells the Israelites that the children who were too young to understand the difference between good and evil would be allowed to enter the Promised Land, while the adults who rebelled against God would not.
This passage suggests that God has a special concern for children who are too young to understand the difference between right and wrong.
While it doesn’t explicitly mention heaven, it does imply that God’s mercy extends to those who are not yet able to make moral decisions for themselves.
The Character of God and the Destiny of Children
When it comes to the question of whether children go to heaven, the character of God is a crucial factor to consider.
God’s love and mercy for little ones are evident throughout the Bible, and it is clear that He cares deeply for them.
God’s Love and Mercy for Little Ones
Psalm 145:9 describes God as “good to all, and His mercies are over all His works.”
This includes children, who are part of God’s creation. Jesus also demonstrated His love for children when He said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14).
God’s love for children does not mean that they automatically go to heaven when they die, but it does show His compassion for them.
The justice and graciousness of God also come into play when considering the destiny of children.
The Justice and Graciousness of God
God is a just judge who cannot tolerate sin. However, He is also gracious and merciful and desires that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).
When it comes to the destiny of children, it is important to remember that they are not capable of understanding and choosing to follow Christ in the same way that adults are.
Therefore, it is reasonable to believe that God would not hold children accountable for their sins in the same way that He holds adults accountable.
Instead, God’s mercy and grace would likely extend to little ones who have not yet reached the age of accountability.
Historical and Contemporary Views on Children in Heaven
When it comes to the question of whether children go to heaven, there have been a variety of views throughout history.
In this section, we will explore some of the most prominent views from different eras of Christian thought.
Augustine and Original Sin
One of the earliest and most influential theologians to address the question of children in heaven was Augustine. Augustine believed that all humans are born with a sinful nature due to Adam’s original sin.
This means that even infants are born with a predisposition towards sin and in need of salvation.
Augustine also believed that infants who die before reaching the age of reason are not held accountable for their sins and are thus saved by the grace of God.
Reformation Views: Calvin and Luther
During the Reformation, John Calvin and Martin Luther both held similar views on the fate of children who die before reaching the age of reason.
They believed that infants who die in infancy are saved by the grace of God, regardless of whether they have been baptized or not. However, they also believed that all humans are born with a sinful nature and need salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
Modern Theological Consensus
In contemporary theology, there is a consensus that children who die before reaching the age of reason are saved by the grace of God. This view is based on the belief that God is merciful and just and that infants and young children are not capable of understanding the gospel message and making a conscious decision to follow Christ.
But, there is still some debate among theologians about the nature of original sin and the extent to which infants are affected by it.
Practical Considerations and Pastoral Care
Losing a child is a tragedy that no parent should ever have to experience. As a pastor or caregiver, it’s important to be prepared to provide comfort and support to grieving families during this difficult time.
Here are some practical considerations and pastoral care tips to keep in mind.
Dealing with the Tragedy of a Child’s Death
The death of a child is a heartbreaking event that can leave families feeling lost, confused, and overwhelmed.
As a pastor or caregiver, it’s important to acknowledge the tragedy of the situation and offer support in a compassionate and understanding manner.
Listen to the family’s concerns and provide a safe space for them to express their emotions. Remember that grief is a process that takes time, and everyone experiences it differently.
It’s also important to be sensitive to the family’s cultural and religious beliefs. While some may find comfort in the idea that their child is now in heaven, others may struggle with the concept. Be respectful of their beliefs and offer support and guidance as needed.
Providing Comfort and Assurance to Grieving Families
One of the most important things you can do for grieving families is to provide comfort and assurance.
Let them know that they are not alone and that you are there to support them through this difficult time. Offer practical assistance such as helping with funeral arrangements, providing meals, or running errands.
It’s also important to reassure families that their child is now in a better place and is no longer suffering.
Remind them of the love and joy that their child brought into their lives and encourage them to hold onto those memories.
Above all, show families that you care. Offer a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and a compassionate heart. Let them know that they are loved and that you are there to support them every step of the way.
