Where Do Babies Go When They Die?

Exploring Hope and Comfort for Grieving Parents

In this episode of Heart of the Matter, we tackled a deeply sensitive topic: the fate of babies and young children after death. The loss of a child is an unimaginable tragedy for any family, and the theological responses to this question can often add to the pain.

We explored various doctrinal perspectives, starting with Calvinism, which posits that all humans are depraved from birth. According to this view, if a baby is not elected by God, they are destined for hell. This stark belief leaves grieving parents with the painful possibility that their child may suffer eternally.

In contrast, Arminianism acknowledges that while humans are born sinful, they have the free will to choose God. However, this raises the question of how an infant can make such a choice, leading to a somewhat ambiguous answer for parents seeking comfort.

Roman Catholicism has evolved in its teachings over time. Historically, unbaptized infants were thought to go to hell, but the concept of limbo emerged to provide solace. Today, many Catholic theologians suggest that innocent souls may go directly to heaven, reflecting a shift towards a more compassionate understanding.

Mormonism offers a different perspective, asserting that all souls come from a pre-mortal existence and are free from sin at birth. This belief allows for the comforting notion that deceased infants return to God and will be reunited with their families in the resurrection.

Finally, we presented a biblically supported view we call Fulfillment. This perspective emphasizes God’s mercy and justice, suggesting that all souls, including those of deceased infants, now go to a heavenly realm due to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. This view offers hope and reassurance to grieving parents, affirming that their children are in a place of love and light, awaiting their reunion.

Ultimately, the message we conveyed is one of hope and comfort, encouraging parents to trust in a loving God who cares for their children, even in the face of profound loss.