My name is Pete Jackson. I’m a disciple (follower) of the Lord Jesus Christ. In terms of vocation, I am an associate minister at Christ Church Central in Sheffield.
I have quite a lot of interests, including cricket, music, food and Dr Who.
I blog mainly because it helps me think, but also on the off-chance that something I have to say/ notice someone else saying, will be useful to someone else and might just serve to advance the kingdom and glory of God through Jesus Christ.
Alright wacko! Danger here. Long time no speak. How’s you? Hope you and family are still well.
Was bored on the web the other week and decided to look you up and found your blog. Was drawn to the whole baptism thing as is always a good hot pot to chuck round, plus you’ve had exp at oakhill with all that stuff with fedvis too so thought it’d be good to see what you thought. I can’t say I’ve read all that you said (it was very comprehensive!) so if my question is ignorant I’m really sorry.
How does the infant bapt thing work with adopted kids? Does in depend what age they enter the covenant family? If they experience the blessings till the ‘opt out’ then should that be a strong argument for everyone to adopt (a great evange method?).
Sorry for the q’s out of the blue. Just wondering.
love dave
By: danger on September 15, 2009
at 7:33 pm
Hey Danger! Great to hear from you.
I reckon the covenant succession thing goes by household rather than genetics. I.e. it’s to do with who parents you, hence why adopted kids should be baptised, and the promises etc. apply to them too. Abraham circumcised all the males of his household, slaves included.
Bringing covenant children to faith is not so much something ‘magic’ that God does (though of course it’s always a miracle, in anyone) as something that he does through faithful parenting and being part of the church family etc., and we should expect the same thing to happen for kids adopted into a covenant family.
The less clear thing (to my mind at least) is how much we should ‘assume’ about their own faith etc., especially if they join the family at an age where it’s seemingly clear they don’t have faith. But they should still be brought up in the discipline of the Lord, hence expected to trust Christ all the more as they learn more about him.
Adoption itself is such a fantastic picture of the gospel, more christians should be doing it. It’s also a really practical and positive way of engaging in the fight against abortion by being part of an alternative solution for parents who can’t cope with a child.
By: Pete on September 16, 2009
at 8:11 am