Do Baptists have evil babies?

In exploring the question "Do Baptists have evil babies?" it’s important to clarify Baptist beliefs about original sin and human nature. Many Baptists affirm the concept of original sin, which is the idea that all humans inherit a sinful nature due to the fall of Adam and Eve. However, this does not mean that infants are considered "evil" in a moral sense. Instead, the doctrine suggests that babies are born with a propensity toward sinfulness but are not guilty of personal sins until they reach an age of accountability. Romans 3:23 states, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," which is often referenced in discussions on universal sinfulness. Baptists generally interpret this to mean that every person has fallen short and is in need of salvation. However, this theological view is nuanced by emphasizing God’s grace and the opportunity for individuals to respond to the gospel through faith and repentance. From my personal experience attending Baptist worship services and studying their doctrinal statements, the focus is less on labeling infants as "evil" and more on the belief that salvation and cleansing from sin come through personal faith in Jesus Christ. This aligns with the emphasis in Baptist theology on a personal decision for Christ rather than any predetermined moral status at birth. Baptist beliefs also differentiate from some Presbyterian and Calvinist traditions by rejecting the idea of infants being predestined to salvation or damnation. Instead, they maintain that each individual’s relationship with God is formed through an informed personal choice later in life. In everyday conversations within Baptist communities, this theological stance promotes a hopeful outlook on human nature — emphasizing forgiveness, redemption, and the potential for transformation in every person. This perspective helps address concerns about the nature of infants and original sin by focusing on God’s mercy and the eventual role of personal faith rather than inherent evilness from birth.