Ministry Students Ages of Conversion with Implications for Childhood Evangelism and Baptism Practices

Abstract

In recent years, the age of conversion and baptism in North America has steadily decreased for most Christian faith traditions that practice believer's baptism. Several denominational leaders and Christian educators have expressed concerns about the possible negative effects related to these seemingly premature conversions. The findings from a national study of ministry students, however, provide some evidence that early conversions of individuals within a strong Christian environment (i.e., devout Christian parents and a high level of church involvement) do not necessarily have detrimental effects on the individual's spiritual growth or long-term faith commitment. Nevertheless, some basic guidelines should be followed to encourage the most appropriate practices related to childhood evangelism and baptism.