Lecture Notes: The Doctrine of Paedo Communion

Introduction

• Pastor Thomas attended a conference in Atlanta.
• Encountered negative opinions on the doctrine of Paedo communion.
• Request for a summary of the case for Paedo communion.
• The doctrine has been held for about 20 years by the speaker.

Overview of Paedo Communion

• Definition: Paedo communion means child communion.
  • "Paedo" means child, and "baptism" means child baptism.
  • The doctrine suggests that the only requirement for coming to the Lord's table is being baptized.
  • Children are included at the Lord's table because they are baptized.
  • It's a presbyterian discussion.

History and Development

• Early Church: Children were baptized and participated in communion.
• Middle Ages: Practice declined in the Western Church due to the doctrine of transubstantiation.
• Eastern Orthodox Church: Continues to practice Paedo communion.
• Protestant Reformation: Did not restore Paedo communion but restored frequent communion and other practices.
• Modern Times: Gaining interest, particularly in Presbyterian circles.

Arguments in Favor of Paedo Communion

• Historical practice in the early church.
• Baptism as a covenantal sign.
• Christian Reformed Church, PCA, and OPC have considered and studied the doctrine.
• Restorative aspect of salvation: restoring societal and familial bonds.

Theological Framework

• Trinitarian View of Humanity and Society: God as one and three; societal bonds.
• Covenantal View of History: Fathers and sons, generational continuity in faith.
• Baptism and Old Testament Background: Baptism draws on circumcision and other Old Testament practices.

Biblical Basis and Festivals

• Old Testament festivals included children (Deuteronomy 16:10-14).
• Baptism as the gateway to participate in the feasts.
• Examples of child participation in sacramental meals.

Conclusion

• Paedo communion is rooted in historical practices and theological principles of inclusion.
• The issue remains controversial but is gaining traction for its biblical and historical validity.
• Further study and understanding are needed to resolve differing views.

Prayer and Closing

• Emphasis on unity and understanding among differing theological perspectives.
• Acknowledgment of ongoing learning and development in theology.

Note: The lecture discussed both the rationale behind Paedo communion and the historical and theological contexts that have shaped its practice and consideration in modern times. The speaker believes that salvation restores societal and familial bonds, making children natural participants in communion as baptized members of the church.