Age of Accountability

[BeforeThereWas]

Matthew chapter 12.

The subject is the age of accountability—specifically, what the age of accountability is during this day.

To begin with, the phrase "age of accountability" never actually appears in the Scriptures. There’s no such phrase recorded. In fact, the word "accountability" itself doesn’t appear in the Bible. However, I would suggest to you that the principle or concept of giving an account is mentioned repeatedly.

Looking at Matthew 12—specifically verse 36:

"But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment." (Matthew 12:36)

Do men ultimately give account to God for their actions? The answer is yes.

Let’s look at Romans 14:12:

"So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God."

So it's very clear in the Scriptures that people are required to give an account. Even though the Bible doesn't use the word "accountability", or the phrase "age of accountability", the concept is very much present.

Here’s a working definition:
The age of accountability is the age at which a person is required to give account to God—in other words, the age at which they are held responsible for their actions.

Prior to that age or level of maturity, a person is not held accountable. Let me give you a simple example:

A one-year-old does not understand the concept of stealing. If that child sees a toy they like and grabs it from another child, we don't lock them up for theft, do we? Of course not. Why? Because they lack the capacity to comprehend the moral implications of their actions.

Even human law—imperfect as it is—recognizes that children below a certain age are not legally accountable. You don’t see one-year-olds in prison for stealing toys.

So for the purposes of our study, again:

The age of accountability is the point at which someone is required to give account to God.
Below that age: they are not held accountable. Above that age: they are.

Most people agree that adults are held accountable. The question—the point of disagreement—is this:
Is there an age below which people are automatically saved if they die?

Let’s be clear: the issue with the age of accountability is whether there is such an age, and if so, what happens to a person who dies before reaching it. Some believe such individuals go to Heaven automatically. Others disagree.

There are three basic views:

1. There is no age of accountability—even infants are accountable.
2. The age of accountability is when the individual obtains the knowledge of right and wrong—not a specific age, but a level of understanding.
3. There is a specific numerical age of accountability—different people suggest different ages.

Let’s walk through each of these in subsequent posts...

BTW

 

[BeforeThereWas]

View 1: There is No Age of Accountability

This view holds that even infants are accountable. Here’s the reasoning behind it:

People are saved only by faith in Christ.

If an infant—or even a miscarried child—has not placed faith in Christ, then they are not saved.
Therefore, such children are lost.

In other words, this view teaches that no one is exempt, not even the unborn. I do not believe this view is correct.

Here’s one reason:
I don't believe infants can come to faith. That’s not a wild claim. Think about what the Gospel is:

"Christ died for our sins."

To believe that, one must first understand sin.
Most very young children—and certainly unborn children—do not understand sin. Therefore, they have no capacity to believe the Gospel.

So what does that mean? According to this view, such individuals have no way to be saved, and are therefore damned. I reject that idea.

Let’s go to 2 Samuel chapter 12, where we see David’s response to the death of his infant child.

This is after David’s sin with Bathsheba. God, in judgment, takes the child’s life.

2 Samuel 12:23:
"But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me."

David clearly believed he would see his child again. Now, some argue that this simply means they’d both be in the grave. But does that interpretation offer any comfort? Not really. What David is saying is that he will go to where his child is, and he finds hope in that.

To me, this strongly implies that David believed his child was in Abraham’s Bosom.

So, I reject View 1 because I believe it is inconsistent with God’s grace and a slander on God’s character.


View 2: The Age of Accountability is When One Gains Knowledge of Right and Wrong

Let’s go to Deuteronomy 1:39:

"Moreover your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, and your children, which in that day had no knowledge between good and evil..."

Also, Isaiah 7:16:

"For before the child shall know to refuse the evil, and choose the good..."

These verses clearly teach that there is a point in a child’s life before they know right from wrong. So this view rightly identifies that this knowledge develops over time, and that it comes at different ages for different people.

However, here’s the problem:
This view assumes that as soon as someone gains the knowledge of right and wrong, they become accountable to God. That assumption is not supported by Scripture.

Let me illustrate the flaw with an example:

Suppose a child gains that knowledge on their fifth birthday. The next day, they die in a car accident. If this view is correct, that child goes to hell—because they were accountable the moment they gained that knowledge.

Does that seem consistent with God’s dealings throughout Scripture?

Look at Genesis 6:3. When God decided to destroy mankind with the flood, He gave them 120 years. He didn’t bring immediate judgment.

In Jonah 3:4, God gave Nineveh forty days to repent.

In Matthew 25:19, speaking of Christ’s return:

"After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them."

God always gives advance notice. He does not expect instantaneous response.

So, requiring a child to respond the moment they comprehend right and wrong—without time to process, understand the Gospel, and believe—is inconsistent with God's character and precedent.


View 3: There Is a Specific Numerical Age of Accountability

This view teaches that there is a set age when someone becomes accountable to God.

There are different opinions on the exact age. Jewish tradition, for example, sets the age at 13, which is why boys have a Bar Mitzvah—a rite of passage into adulthood and moral responsibility.

We’ll explore this view further next, but the key takeaway is this:

God's judgment is always preceded by a clear warning, and His grace allows for understanding and response—not instant condemnation.

Numbers chapter 1. What I'm going to suggest to you is that the Old Testament gives a specific numerical age of accountability—and that age is 20. I’m going to see if I can prove that.

So, turn to Numbers 1, and as you're doing that, let me make this point: Man is a sinner by nature. We’re made sinners because of Adam’s sin. It's not that we live years and years and then become sinners. We are sinners from the start. Paul says we are “by nature the children of wrath.” Why? Because we were born sinners—it’s in our nature to sin.

A child is born a sinner, but they don’t yet know good and evil. We know that from Deuteronomy 1:39 and Isaiah 7:16, which both speak of a child before they know to refuse the evil and choose the good. So again, a child is born in sin, but there’s a point they come to when they do know good and evil.

Now, we all recognize that people know good and evil far before age 20. Of course they do. We all understand that. But I’m going to suggest to you that age 20 is the Old Testament age of accountability.

 

[BeforeThereWas]

[Age 20: The Age of War and Service]

Let’s look at Numbers chapter 1.

Verse 3: “From twenty years old and upward, all that are able to go forth to war...”

Verse 20: “Every male from twenty years old and upward, all that were able to go forth to war.”

So Numbers 1 tells us the age at which a man in Israel was old enough to go to war was 20. That’s very clear.

Now get Numbers 26:2:

“Take the sum of all the congregation of the children of Israel from twenty years old and upward… all that are able to go to war in Israel.”

Again, this is a military accountability. A man is considered of age—an adult in a national sense—at 20.

Now go to 1 Chronicles 23:24:

“These were the sons of Levi… that did the work for the service of the house of the LORD, from the age of twenty years and upward.”

So the Levites began their service in the house of the Lord at age 20.

Next, go to Ezra 3:8:

“…and appointed the Levites, from twenty years old and upward, to set forward the work of the house of the LORD.”

Again, we’re seeing a pattern: the Old Testament consistently marks age 20 as the beginning of adult responsibilities—whether war, service, or spiritual duties.


[God’s Judgment and Accountability]

Now go to Numbers 14:29:

“Your carcasses shall fall in this wilderness… from twenty years old and upward, which have murmured against me.”

Here's the context: Israel had sent scouts into the Promised Land. The scouts came back with a negative report, saying, “This is a bad idea. There are giants—we’ll be crushed.” Of all the adults, only Joshua and Caleb wanted to go in.

What does God say about the rest?

Those 20 years old and older who murmured would die in the wilderness. But what about those under 20? They weren’t held accountable—even though we can be certain that some of them murmured too.

Read the verse again:

“...all that were numbered of you… from twenty years old and upward…”

So if you were 19 years and 11 months old—you were spared. If you were 20—you weren’t.

Go to Numbers 32:11:

“Surely none of the men that came up out of Egypt, from twenty years old and upward, shall see the land... except Caleb… and Joshua...”

Again, this is crystal clear. The age of 20 was the cutoff point for judgment. Not 18. Not when they came to the knowledge of good and evil. Twenty.

 

[BeforeThereWas]

[Ransom for the Soul – Exodus 30]

This next one is particularly strong. Go to Exodus 30:11–15.

“When thou takest the sum of the children of Israel… they shall give every man a ransom for his soul unto the LORD…”

Verse 14:

“Every one that passeth among them that are numbered, from twenty years old and above, shall give an offering unto the LORD.”

And why?

“...to make an atonement for your souls.” (v. 15)

If that’s not a statement of accountability, I don’t know what is. This isn’t just about civic duty or temple service—it’s about the soul.

Then see Exodus 38:26:

“...every one that went to be numbered, from twenty years old and upward...”

That offering—the ransom for the soul—was required only from those 20 and older.

So what are we seeing?

• Age 20: fit for war.
• Age 20: able to serve in the temple.
• Age 20: held accountable for rebellion.
• Age 20: required to give a ransom for the soul.

It’s not a coincidence. It’s a clear biblical pattern.


[Addressing Objections]

Now, I know the objection you might raise: “That’s the Old Testament! We’re under grace.”

Fair point. But let’s think this through.

What are lost people under today? The Law—because the law is our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ (Gal. 3:24). Romans 3:20 says,

“...by the law is the knowledge of sin.”

So the law still has a function for unbelievers today—it exposes sin and guilt. And that means the principle of accountability is still relevant for the lost.

Let’s be clear: saved people don’t need the age of accountability. If a child believes the gospel at age 5, they’re saved. If they die at 5—or 85—they go to heaven.

The age of accountability benefits the lost—those who haven’t believed. Just like in the wilderness, where rebellious 19-year-olds weren’t held accountable, the age of accountability today functions as a gracious protection.


[Clarification Against Misunderstanding]

Now I want to clarify, because this will be misunderstood.

If I say the age of accountability is 20, some will twist that to say, “Oh, he's saying kids can’t be saved.”

Not true at all.

Anyone who believes the gospel can be saved—at any age. If a 3-year-old understands they’re a sinner and that Christ died for them—they can be saved.

Others might say, “Well, then I’ll just wait till I’m 20.” No. Look at 2 Corinthians 6:2:

“...behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

You should believe the gospel the moment you hear it. Why? Because:

1. You’ll likely live to age 20 and then be accountable.
2. You're spiritually dead until you believe (Romans 7:9).

Get saved early so you can serve the Lord, live with peace, and walk in assurance.


[God’s Default Rule]

Let me close with a thought. What you believe about the age of accountability reflects what you believe about God’s default rule.

Let’s define that. A default rule is what applies unless you take action to change it.

Example: Go to McDonald's and order a sausage McMuffin—it comes with cheese. A sausage biscuit doesn’t. Why? That’s just their default. You can change it, but you have to say so.

Or consider a legal will. If you die without a will, the state distributes your property according to default laws.

So here's the question:

• If you believe there is no age of accountability, then God’s default rule is judgment—infants, miscarried children, and toddlers go to hell unless they believed.
• But if you believe in an age 20 threshold, then God's default rule is grace—children who die before accountability are saved.

Which is more consistent with God's character?

“Who will have all men to be saved…” (1 Timothy 2:4)
“Christ died for all…” (2 Corinthians 5:15)

The age 20 principle fits God's desire that all be saved. It’s not about laxness. It’s about grace—a gracious window of protection.

[Final Thoughts]

Yes, 19-year-olds can be rebellious, just like today. But God didn’t hold them accountable back then—not until 20. That should tell us something about His mercy.

So reach your own conclusion based on Scripture. It’s reasonable to say the Old Testament clearly teaches a 20-year age of accountability. It's not the same as the age when someone knows good and evil—people reach that far earlier.

But don’t misunderstand me—get saved early. Serve the Lord with your life. Don’t gamble on God’s patience. But rejoice that He’s gracious enough to have given it.

BTW

 

[Wynona]

Are you saying that between an individual's age of knowing good and evil there is a grace period until they turn 20?

 

[BeforeThereWas]

Are you saying that between an individual's age of knowing good and evil there is a grace period until they turn 20?

Good question. To answer that, all I can say is that my posting here points only to what seems plausible, based upon indicators from the OT, so yes, I think there is a grace period that's expressive of the depths of God's mercies for the young. I'm Israeli, but I don't subscribe to all Jewish dogmas, just as Christ did not. Unlike my murderous forefathers who killed the prophets and our Messiah, I have learned to love and embrace our prophets and writers of scripture...especially Paul.

Blessings.

BTW

 

[Ronald David Bruno]

Matthew chapter 12.

The subject is the age of accountability—specifically, what the age of accountability is during this day.

To begin with, the phrase "age of accountability" never actually appears in the Scriptures. There’s no such phrase recorded. In fact, the word "accountability" itself doesn’t appear in the Bible. However, I would suggest to you that the principle or concept of giving an account is mentioned repeatedly.

Looking at Matthew 12—specifically verse 36:

"But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment." (Matthew 12:36)

Do men ultimately give account to God for their actions? The answer is yes.

Let’s look at Romans 14:12:

"So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God."

So it's very clear in the Scriptures that people are required to give an account. Even though the Bible doesn't use the word "accountability", or the phrase "age of accountability", the concept is very much present.

Here’s a working definition:
The age of accountability is the age at which a person is required to give account to God—in other words, the age at which they are held responsible for their actions.

Prior to that age or level of maturity, a person is not held accountable. Let me give you a simple example:

A one-year-old does not understand the concept of stealing. If that child sees a toy they like and grabs it from another child, we don't lock them up for theft, do we? Of course not. Why? Because they lack the capacity to comprehend the moral implications of their actions.

Even human law—imperfect as it is—recognizes that children below a certain age are not legally accountable. You don’t see one-year-olds in prison for stealing toys.

So for the purposes of our study, again:

The age of accountability is the point at which someone is required to give account to God.
Below that age: they are not held accountable. Above that age: they are.

Most people agree that adults are held accountable. The question—the point of disagreement—is this:
Is there an age below which people are automatically saved if they die?

Let’s be clear: the issue with the age of accountability is whether there is such an age, and if so, what happens to a person who dies before reaching it. Some believe such individuals go to Heaven automatically. Others disagree.

There are three basic views:

1. There is no age of accountability—even infants are accountable.
2. The age of accountability is when the individual obtains the knowledge of right and wrong—not a specific age, but a level of understanding.
3. There is a specific numerical age of accountability—different people suggest different ages.

Let’s walk through each of these in subsequent posts...

BTW

Matt. 12:35-36 says
A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. 36 But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.
"man" (woman also implied) - adults, not children
And I am not implying that that they are innocent. NO, we are all born sinners.
Let's examine this on the surface.
When does our bodies change? Puberty. Between 8-13 for girls and 9-14 for boys. Boys have their Bar Mitzvah at 13. Girls have Bat Mitzvah at 12. These were the recognized ages when they physically and mentally entered into the young adult stage, having learned from right and wrong, put away childish things, became more responsible and especially considering that God made them able to procreated at such a young age. We can't conceive in modern times that they could be so responsible to bare children and be fully accountable. But even 100 hundred years ago a 13 year old boy knew how to run his father's farm and do the buying and selling business in town, fire a gun - they were responsible and accountable for much. Kids these days are another story. The average GenZ boys are lazy, irresponsible, live at home, milk their parents through their 20's. Psychologists say the average boy becomes a man at age 30. How said. It's the parents fault ( who are the Millennials), a generation who is more concerned about not hurting their children's feelings, that everyone is a winner, no one fails, (only positive affirmations from this group ... and some even went as far as to never say no to their children); and of course by sparing the rod - they spoil their child. And society has even made it illegal to spank your child.

Psychologists also say that on average _ children cannot distinguish between reality and fantasy until about 8 years old.
With good corrective parents, they learn about morality, responsibility, accountability at a very young age. God has made us with a moral code. When we do something wrong, the guilt alarm goes off. Why do we feel guilty? Because we are guilty! Now at a very age, we aren't sure, so we constantly test the boundaries of this intended inner law. We're rebellious against it. We defy it, defy and disobey our parents and want to go our own way. Little sinners are we. We seriously need discipline, guidance, correction ... or else when we're young adults, we will certainly continue to go our own way and cause embarrassment to our parents. We'll certainly hurt ourselves and many people, steal, lie and worse case scenario, go to jail - because our parents failed. But it is not all theor fault, we know that we failed as well. Therefore we all are accountable to God. So at least at 8 years old, we know in a shallow way what is right and wrong and chose to do good or evil. Their conscience ( our moral awareness) over time _ without correction can become seared, callous, so that the guilt alarm can barely be heard anymore.
That said, my daughter received Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized at the age of 9. Children's church since she was 3 did wonders. She was obedient, so I never had to spank her. Boys are a different story. Unfortunately, my grand-daughter is NOT like her Mom. She is different, rebellious and at 4 testing us at every turn - oh my. 90% angel/ 10% devil. The wooden spoon comes out - then she listens.

 

[BeforeThereWas]

Matt. 12:36 says "men" (women also implied) - not children. And I am not implying that thaty are innocent. NO, we are all born sinners.
Let's examine this on the surface.
When does our bodies change? Puberty. Between 8-13 for girls and 9-14 for boys. Boys have their Bar Mitzvah at 13. Girls have Bat Mitzvah at 12. These were the recognized ages when they physically mentally entered into the young adult stage, having learned from right and wrong, put away childish things, became more responsible and especially that God made them able to procreated at such a young. We can't conceive in modern times that they could be so responsible to bare children and fully accountable. But even 100 hundred years ago a 13 year old boy knew how to run his father's farm and do the buying and selling business in town, fire a gun - they were responsible and accountable for much. Kids these days are another story. The average GenZ boys are lazy, irresponsible, live at home, milk their parents through their 20's. Psychologists say the average boy becomes a man at age 30. How said. It's the parents fault ( who are the Millennials), a generation who is more concerned about not hurting their children's feelings, that everyone is a winner, no one fails, (only positive affirmations from this group ... and some even went as far as to never say no to their children); and of course by sparing the rod - they spoil their child. And society has even made it illegal to spank your child.

Psychologists also say that on average _ children cannot distinguish between reality and fantasy until about 8 years old.
With good corrective parents, they learn about morality, responsibility, accountability at a very young age. God has made us with a moral code. When we do something wrong, the guilt alarm goes off. Why do we feel guilty? Because we are guilty! Now at a very age, we aren't sure, so we constantly test the boundaries of this intended inner law. We're rebellious against it. We defy it, defy and disobey our parents and want to go our own way. Little sinners are we. We seriously need discipline, guidance, correction ... or else when we're young adults, we will certainly continue to go our own way and cause embarrassment to our parents. We'll certainly hurt ourselves and many people, steal, lie and worse case scenario, go to jail - because our parents failed. But it is not all theor fault, we know that we failed as well. Therefore we all are accountable to God. So at least at 8 years old, we know in a shallow way what is right and wrong and chose to do good or evil. Their conscience ( our moral awareness) over time _ without correction can become seared, callous, so that the guilt alarm can barely be heard anymore.
That said, my daughter received Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized at the age of 9. Children's church since she was 3 did wonders. She was obedient, so I never had to spank her. Boys are a different story. Unfortunately, my grand-daughter is NOT like her Mom. She is different, rebellious and at 4 testing us at every turn - oh my. 90% angel/ 10% devil. The wooden spoon comes out - then she listens.

You've hit upon the experiences of many, many people, both parents and grandparents.

You also hit upon the fact that many parents are the ones who need to be whooped for their lack of parenting. I know of a family where the mother feels overwhelmed because her husband looks more to his own pleasures than to help her raise their children in the admonition of the Lord. However, the mother is failing to even talk to her husband about her need for him to be more involved. He seems to think that taking his kids to sports activities, thus allowing sports to instill within them what they need as opposed to his becoming the godly father and instructor that he should be to them...well, it's just business as usual in so many families.

BTW

 

[Behold]

The age of accountability occurs the moment that God understands (recognizes).... that your willful carnal behavior, is now willful sinning against Him.

Some reach that place quite early in life.

 

[BeforeThereWas]

The age of accountability occurs the moment that God understands (recognizes).... that your willful carnal behavior, is now willful sinning against Him.

Some reach that place quite early in life.

Got a biblical reference for that?

BTW

 

[Behold]

Got a biblical reference for that?

BTW

"sin revived and i died". is How Paul explains that "moment", when God recognized your sin.

Do you remember your moment?
God does., as that is when your "age of accountability" landed on you.

 

[BeforeThereWas]

"sin revived and i died". is How Paul explains that "moment", when God recognized your sin.

Do you remember your moment?
God does., as that is when your "age of accountability" landed on you.

Do you have a reference for that so we can look at your tiny little quote in context?

BTW

 

[Behold]

Do you have a reference for that so we can look at your tiny little quote in context?

BTW

Let me explain it, simply.... Reader.

1.) Paul teaches in Philippians, that he was "blameless in the law". "once'" <.
This means that he was in a spiritual place that had no acouuntabllity regarding the law...... YET.
This means that Moses Law and the 10 Commandments had not yet taken the position of dominion over him to define him and his deeds as a sinner sinning, yet.

See, Its the Law & 10 Commandments that define sin..... and until the law has its dominion over you, then it can't define your deeds as anything.

Notice......>"there was sin in the world"....when Adam and Eve were on it..........however it was not imputed to them, until they disobeyed a commandment...."dont eat of that Tree".... and they willfully broke God's commandment, and then they became instantly (accountable) = JUDGED by it, and that was the initial moment of the fall of us all.
We just get ours later, because ....."by one man's sin, sin entered the world of humanity" and we all become the same.

Reader,
we are "born in sin" but we are not sinners until we are defined by the Law as a sinner., and at that exact moment is your "age of accountability". before the LAW, which God then rocognizes.

2.) So, when Paul reached that age of accountability = before the LAW.....then the Law now had dominion over him, to JUDGE HIM, as a sinner.
So, at that moment Paul's "sin revived and He died"....... as that was the moment that the Law could judge Him, because He had entered into its dominion... the "dominion of the law". and that is a "curse".

And now.......regarding Christians.....the law can't judge us anymore....because ""we are not under the law, but under GRACE"" .. Paul teaches.

A.) Born again Christians exist here..

= """"Where there is no Law, there is no sin, (Transgression)."""""

3.) This is why 2 Corin 5:19 and Romans 4:8 (Paul's doctrine) teaches that God does not ever charge SIN to a Christian., as He can only do that when the Law has dominion over the person.........and the Christian is : ""Not under the law....but under (God's eternal ) Grace"" .

Why?

AA) """Because CHRIST.. is the END. OF. THE. LAW.....for righteousness, to/for everyone who BELIEVES""".

And that "made free from the law" one......... = is the born again Christian whose = "FAITH has been counted by God as (Christ's) Righteousness"".. .= imputed to them as the : "imputed righteousness of Christ"
So, all of this that im showing you ends up here....

"The Gift of Righteousness" that we have received from God.

 

[Raccoon1010]

Matthew chapter 12.

The subject is the age of accountability—specifically, what the age of accountability is during this day.

To begin with, the phrase "age of accountability" never actually appears in the Scriptures. There’s no such phrase recorded. In fact, the word "accountability" itself doesn’t appear in the Bible. However, I would suggest to you that the principle or concept of giving an account is mentioned repeatedly.

Looking at Matthew 12—specifically verse 36:

"But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment." (Matthew 12:36)

Do men ultimately give account to God for their actions? The answer is yes.

Let’s look at Romans 14:12:

"So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God."

So it's very clear in the Scriptures that people are required to give an account. Even though the Bible doesn't use the word "accountability", or the phrase "age of accountability", the concept is very much present.

Here’s a working definition:
The age of accountability is the age at which a person is required to give account to God—in other words, the age at which they are held responsible for their actions.

Prior to that age or level of maturity, a person is not held accountable. Let me give you a simple example:

A one-year-old does not understand the concept of stealing. If that child sees a toy they like and grabs it from another child, we don't lock them up for theft, do we? Of course not. Why? Because they lack the capacity to comprehend the moral implications of their actions.

Even human law—imperfect as it is—recognizes that children below a certain age are not legally accountable. You don’t see one-year-olds in prison for stealing toys.

So for the purposes of our study, again:

The age of accountability is the point at which someone is required to give account to God.
Below that age: they are not held accountable. Above that age: they are.

Most people agree that adults are held accountable. The question—the point of disagreement—is this:
Is there an age below which people are automatically saved if they die?

Let’s be clear: the issue with the age of accountability is whether there is such an age, and if so, what happens to a person who dies before reaching it. Some believe such individuals go to Heaven automatically. Others disagree.

There are three basic views:

1. There is no age of accountability—even infants are accountable.
2. The age of accountability is when the individual obtains the knowledge of right and wrong—not a specific age, but a level of understanding.
3. There is a specific numerical age of accountability—different people suggest different ages.

Let’s walk through each of these in subsequent posts...

BTW

First let me say, I like your approach to the issue.

Second, Jesus the Christ corrected the age of accountability that was sin unto death. He gave his life for us so that all might be resurrected as written in the scriptures.

Bible Gateway passage: 1 Corinthians 15:22 - King James Version

For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

www.biblegateway.com

22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

The original age of accountability was when Eve was beguiled by the serpent. Adam also became accountable then, when they tasted or touched the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. As they were commanded by God not to do that.

As always Father and Son can forgive sins, we turn to our lord Jesus in prayer to the Father for that as the Father's prayer instructs from Jesus. I like prayer from the heart in that manner. But there are also thing God likes to hear from us as in our needs and sorrows, happiness and thankfullness.

Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 6:14-15 - King James Version

For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

www.biblegateway.com

14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

I like the following subject on the issue from the scriptures:

17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. Bible Gateway passage: James 4:17 - King James Version

A more advanced discussion is on the topic of false beliefs, and shaming into guilt in evil ways by a wicked generation, like the topic of bullying, as is the effect sometimes whether the bully knows it or not.

Some are less conscious then others and may run off more of instict as a consciousness, as is the case of brain damage patients, and such.

Thanks for listenning,

@Raccoon1010

 

[BeforeThereWas]

Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 6:14-15 - King James Version

For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

www.biblegateway.com

14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Please keep in mind that Jesus stated that to Jews; specifically His disciples whom He empowered with many things that were not given to others. Context is vastly important in this regard.

I like the following subject on the issue from the scriptures:

17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. Bible Gateway passage: James 4:17 - King James Version

My presentation, overall, points only to indications, not something I will declare and absolute doctrine that should be central to our faith. Most 19 year old's know the difference between good and evil, right and wrong. One of my points in all this is the possibility of the OP's being true on the basis of a mercy unknown to to most today because of the indoctrinations that take place routinely within institutionalized religion that says it's based upon awareness rather than an age offered on the basis of mercy as laid down in many different ways as pointed out in the first few posts of this thread.

Does that help?

A more advanced discussion is on the topic of false beliefs, and shaming into guilt in evil ways by a wicked generation, like the topic of bullying, as is the effect sometimes whether the bully knows it or not.

Some are less conscious then others and may run off more of instict as a consciousness, as is the case of brain damage patients, and such.

Thanks for listenning,

@Raccoon1010

Shaming is indeed a problem, even in some of these threads perpetrated by those who operate on the basis of ad hominem and outright judging. It's not a good idea to run from them, but rather to confront them with loving truths that may even offend them. Some are perpetual victims who feel that lashing out is a good policy. They generally learn the hard way, and much of the time never learn at all because of narcissistic indifference to personal responsibility for seeking out truth in all things, as Paul instructed us.

Good stuff, my friend. Thanks

BTW

 

[Raccoon1010]

Please keep in mind that Jesus stated that to Jews; specifically His disciples whom He empowered with many things that were not given to others. Context is vastly important in this regard.



My presentation, overall, points only to indications, not something I will declare and absolute doctrine that should be central to our faith. Most 19 year old's know the difference between good and evil, right and wrong. One of my points in all this is the possibility of the OP's being true on the basis of a mercy unknown to to most today because of the indoctrinations that take place routinely within institutionalized religion that says it's based upon awareness rather than an age offered on the basis of mercy as laid down in many different ways as pointed out in the first few posts of this thread.

Does that help?



Shaming is indeed a problem, even in some of these threads perpetrated by those who operate on the basis of ad hominem and outright judging. It's not a good idea to run from them, but rather to confront them with loving truths that may even offend them. Some are perpetual victims who feel that lashing out is a good policy. They generally learn the hard way, and much of the time never learn at all because of narcissistic indifference to personal responsibility for seeking out truth in all things, as Paul instructed us.

Good stuff, my friend. Thanks

BTW

Thanks for the discussion.

I differ in directing Christians.

1. Forgiving others is important as the vast majority of Christians agree. I do not forgive victimizers when they are victimizing others, including attempting to attack me. There is a time for forgiving others. That time is after good Christians have dealt with problem people within their groups by those in authority, elders and priest duties and such. Good Christians despise those that go after the vulnerable among them. And may deal with problems in ways God sees as wise as directed by him. A statement of love may not be helpful for those that abuse a loving or caring person. Jesus spoke in parables to the wicked and truth to his disciples. In the end times knowledge will grow (see the book of Daniel for that). Also after those that are enemies to God and his children. Some of the children of God have been seriously hurt, injured by problem persons in society and such. Healing is best away from victimizers, then God heals as a loving God. Although God directs his children with loving direction, many are adults and protect his people.

Short end is this: "here's love victimizer", with an abrupt end to their behavior that may physically hurt the victimizer. From an officer of law enforcement, which includes military. "Feel like love" and is that appropriate at that time? Or does that statement of love cause injury after the injury they suffered during denial of an assault against God's people. Jesus is the judge and will tell some he knew them not. I pray all join Christ that someday the sword may be put away and a loving family exist for all. Such is God's kingdom. Father, Son and Holy Ghost chastise those they love. He heals many. An enemy of God that lays down his or her attacks and says sorry to God is desired, then no enemy remains. God has death and hell itself as an enemy he protects us against, not just victimizers.

Jesus knows his children, which many are adults among us. And they know him. Some are learning in life and need to be guided by those called to serve Jesus' churches.

Cheers, hope the statement from truth helps :)

 

[BeforeThereWas]

Let me explain it, simply.... Reader.

1.) Paul teaches in Philippians, that he was "blameless in the law". "once'" <.
This means that he was in a spiritual place that had no acouuntabllity regarding the law...... YET.
This means that Moses Law and the 10 Commandments had not yet taken the position of dominion over him to define him and his deeds as a sinner sinning, yet.

See, Its the Law & 10 Commandments that define sin..... and until the law has its dominion over you, then it can't define your deeds as anything.

Notice......>"there was sin in the world"....when Adam and Eve were on it..........however it was not imputed to them, until they disobeyed a commandment...."dont eat of that Tree".... and they willfully broke God's commandment, and then they became instantly (accountable) = JUDGED by it, and that was the initial moment of the fall of us all.
We just get ours later, because ....."by one man's sin, sin entered the world of humanity" and we all become the same.

Reader,
we are "born in sin" but we are not sinners until we are defined by the Law as a sinner., and at that exact moment is your "age of accountability". before the LAW, which God then rocognizes.

2.) So, when Paul reached that age of accountability = before the LAW.....then the Law now had dominion over him, to JUDGE HIM, as a sinner.
So, at that moment Paul's "sin revived and He died"....... as that was the moment that the Law could judge Him, because He had entered into its dominion... the "dominion of the law". and that is a "curse".

And now.......regarding Christians.....the law can't judge us anymore....because ""we are not under the law, but under GRACE"" .. Paul teaches.

A.) Born again Christians exist here..

= """"Where there is no Law, there is no sin, (Transgression)."""""

3.) This is why 2 Corin 5:19 and Romans 4:8 (Paul's doctrine) teaches that God does not ever charge SIN to a Christian., as He can only do that when the Law has dominion over the person.........and the Christian is : ""Not under the law....but under (God's eternal ) Grace"" .

Why?

AA) """Because CHRIST.. is the END. OF. THE. LAW.....for righteousness, to/for everyone who BELIEVES""".

And that "made free from the law" one......... = is the born again Christian whose = "FAITH has been counted by God as (Christ's) Righteousness"".. .= imputed to them as the : "imputed righteousness of Christ"
So, all of this that im showing you ends up here....

"The Gift of Righteousness" that we have received from God.

Still bits and pieces. That's ok. These topics are indeed interesting.

MM