Moroni 8: Baptism and Little Children

Book of Mormon Student Study Guide, (2000), 200–201

Do you know why children are not baptized until they are eight years old? Mormon explained the reason in a letter to his son Moroni. Moroni included that important instruction in his sacred record. Ponder Mormon’s teachings and look for how they testify of the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

Understanding the Scriptures

Moroni 8

Epistle (vv. 1, 6)Letter
Disputations (vv. 4–5)Arguments, contentions
Gross (v. 6)Serious, glaring
Whole (v. 8)Healthy
Solemn mockery (vv. 9, 23)Serious act of disrespect
Partial (vv. 12, 18)Unfair, biased
Respecter to persons (v. 12)One who does not treat every person fairly
In the gall of bitterness (v. 14)See the “Understanding the Scriptures” section for Alma 36:18 (p. 125)
Setteth at naught (v. 20)Declares powerless, considers as worthless

Moroni 8:8—“Law of Circumcision Is Done Away in Me”

See Bible Dictionary, “circumcision” (p. 646).

Moroni 8:8–24Baptism of Children

small child

In 1830 the Prophet Joseph Smith learned that “little children are redeemed from the foundation of the world” through Christ. They “cannot sin, for power is not given unto Satan to tempt little children, until they begin to become accountable before me” (D&C 29:46–47). A year later, in 1831, the Lord revealed to the Prophet that children are considered accountable at the age of eight years (see D&C 68:25–27).

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Moroni 8.

Activity A iconWhat Could You Say?

Your neighbors are not members of the Church. Their newborn baby died suddenly. Review Moroni 8:5–22 and write a letter of comfort based on Mormon’s teachings. Include Mormon’s explanation as to why little children do not need to be baptized.

Activity B iconRelate the Scripture to a Story

Read Moroni 8:25–26 and list the principles that are illustrated in the following story:

Thomas was baptized last night. He is 19 years old and first heard about the Church from a friend at college. After the missionaries taught him, he gave up drinking coffee, tea, and beer. He enjoys coming to Church and has made new friends. His old friends say he has changed—that he is a bit more shy and thoughtful, more mature, but not any fun anymore. Thomas is looking forward to his life in the Church. He is hoping to go on a mission as soon as he has been a member of the Church a year, so he can help others find what he found.