Question:
(1) Does the Bible teach that all children of godly parents who are under the age of accountability—meaning the age at which they can make decisions for themselves—will be saved? (2) If so, are these children included among the 144,000 of the last generation? (3) Is it possible for a mother, on her own, to counter outside influences and properly train her children without the support of Bible school or church privileges?
Answer:
- The Bible does not address its teachings to those who are not responsible for their actions; however, we believe that the answer to the first question is self-evident. Refer to Deuteronomy 30:19 and 1 Corinthians 7:14. If children have not sinned against God, surely He will not hold them accountable. Jesus redeems all from Adam’s sin, regardless of their character. Children do not have their own sins to condemn them. Will not the blood of Christ suffice for them? We can confidently leave these matters in God’s hands.
- In our opinion, no, the 144,000 will have undergone a unique experience that children cannot have. While these children and others may stand alongside this representative company, they will not be counted among them. In other biblical listings, women and children are not included in the numbers, yet they stand with those who are numbered.
- It is not possible for a mother to solely raise her children for God, regardless of the circumstances. However, when united with God, she possesses all the power necessary. It takes more than human strength to save and shape the souls of children. First, the mother must give her children to God; then, she should work with Him to train them for Him—in a prayerful, persevering, and hopeful manner. Even if she lacks access to public Bible school and church services, she can create both within her home, where she can be assured of divine support.
