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KnoWhy #253 - Why Did Moroni Include Mormon’s Condemnation of Infant Baptism? (Moroni 8:12)

TitleKnoWhy #253 - Why Did Moroni Include Mormon’s Condemnation of Infant Baptism? (Moroni 8:12)
Publication TypeKnoWhy
Year of Publication2016
Corporate AuthorsBook of Mormon Central Staff
PublisherBook of Mormon Central
Place PublishedSpringville, UT
KeywordsAncient America; Atonement; Baptism; Church Administration; Infant Baptism; Mesoamerica; Ordinance; Priesthood; Sacrifice; Salvation
Abstract

While away at war, Mormon received news of disputations among his people concerning the baptism of little children. Based on evidence that infant baptism and ritual cleansings were performed in pre-Columbian America, it’s possible that this practice was introduced by outside cultures. It is also notable that the Nephite parents at this time may have had a heightened concern for their children, considering that the Lamanites were frequently sacrificing their women and children to idols. Whatever the source and reason for this doctrinal perversion, Mormon’s counsel provides clarification of essential priesthood ordinances, a model of a prophet receiving revelation for the church, and an example of how to lovingly yet firmly uphold the commandments of the Lord.

URLhttps://knowhy.bookofmormoncentral.org/content/why-did-moroni-include-mormon%E2%80%99s-condemnation-of-infant-baptism
Citation Key2880

Scripture Reference

Moroni 8:12