Circumcision and Infant Baptism

Introduction:

I. The Meaning of the Abrahamic Covenant
a. The Spiritual Promises (Heb. 4; Rev. 21:2; Gal. 3:7-9, 29)
b. The Sovereign Initiative (Jer. 34:18ff)

II. The Meaning of the Covenant Sign
a. Synonymous Language
b. Spiritual Significance (Deut. 10:16; 30:6; Jer. 4:4; Rom. 2:28-29; Phil. 3:3; Col. 2:11)

III. The Recipients of the Covenant Sign
a. Professing and True Believers (e.g. Abraham, Rom. 4:11)
b. Unconfirmed but Marked Members
i. Future Unbelievers (e.g. Ishmael, Gal. 4:29)
ii. Unproven Elect (e.g. Isaac)

IV. The Continuity of the Covenant Sign
a. Covenantal Circumcision Finished (Acts 15)
b. Abrahamic Covenant Continued (Rom. 4:16; Gal. 3:7-9, 29)
c. Inclusive Sign Continued
i. Professing Believer Baptism (Acts 2:38ff)
ii. Covenant Infant Baptism (Lk. 18:16; I Cor. 7:14; Acts 2:38ff; Acts 16)
d. Infant Baptism Explained
i. Signified, Spiritual Blessing
1. Regeneration (Deut. 30:6)
2. Justification (Acts 2:28)
3. Adoption (Gen. 17:7)
ii. True, Active Hope
1. Blessing Sent
2. Faith Required
3. Means Continued

Conclusion: