What happens if you never get baptized?

Welcome to Day 14 of our 60-Day Challenge! But before we tackle today’s question, let’s take a moment to reflect on the question from Day 13: You must accept Christ in order to be saved. But what if you’ve never heard of Him during your lifetime?

That’s a heavy question, right? It hits on fairness, love, and the character of God. And it’s one of those questions that doesn’t just make us think—it makes us feel.

Let’s dive in together and see what the scriptures say.

A God of Justice and Love

First off, let’s start with the big picture: Would a just God condemn someone simply because they lived in a time or place where they couldn’t hear the name of Christ? I think most of us instinctively want to say, No way! That doesn’t sound like the God I know.

And we’d be right. Scripture tells us about a God who is perfectly just but also infinitely loving. In 1 Timothy 2:3-6, we read:

“For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”

Did you catch that? All men to be saved. God’s plan isn’t exclusive to a lucky few—it’s meant for everyone.

Now, that doesn’t mean God lowers the bar or makes exceptions. Instead, His plan is so beautifully complete that it accounts for everyone, everywhere, across all times.

So, What’s the Plan?

Here’s where the restored gospel of Jesus Christ really shines. It teaches that Heavenly Father loves His children so much that He’s made a way for everyone to hear and accept the gospel—even those who’ve passed away without the chance to know Christ.

In John 3:15-16, Christ Himself tells us:

“That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son.”

But how does that apply to those who’ve never heard of Christ? Enter 1 Peter 3:18-20:

“For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God... by which also He went and preached unto the spirits in prison.”

Think about that for a second. After His death, Christ didn’t just rest—He went to work, preaching to the spirits who hadn’t yet had the opportunity to hear the gospel. This isn’t just justice—it’s mercy in action.

What Does This Mean for Us?

So, what does all this mean for you and me today? Here are a few takeaways that hit home for me:

1️⃣ God’s Plan is Bigger Than We Imagine
Sometimes, we put human limits on God’s ability to save. But scripture makes it clear that His plan is infinite, all-encompassing, and tailored to ensure everyone has a fair chance.

2️⃣ We’re Part of the Work
If God goes to such great lengths to share the gospel with every soul, how much more should we, in our own small ways, do the same? Sharing Christ’s love can start with something as simple as a conversation or a helping hand.

3️⃣ Hope for All
This truth fills me with hope—not just for myself but for everyone. No one is forgotten in God’s plan. Not a single soul.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

What do you think about all this? Do you believe God’s plan is truly just and loving? How does the idea of Christ preaching to the spirits in prison resonate with you?

Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear them. And if you found this post meaningful, share it with someone who might need a little hope today.

Remember, the gospel isn’t just a message; it’s an invitation. Let’s accept it, live it, and share it together.

Until next time, God bless!

What to Reflect On for Today's Challenge:

Okay, here’s where I leave you with something to think about: If baptism is required for salvation, as Jesus taught, what happens to those who never had the chance to be baptized, like infants who pass away?

That’s question 14, and it’s a doozy. If you’re as curious about this as I am, check out 1 Peter 3:18-20, John 3:8, and 1 Corinthians 15:29 for some answers.

Transcription:

   Hi, my name is Joe Cirillo with Gospel First, and thanks for your decision to follow me on this exciting journey to find Christ's restored church in our day. But before I give you question number 14, did you get the answer to question 13? You must accept Christ in order to be saved. But what if you've never heard of the name of Christ while in your lifetime?

Would a just God condemn someone merely because of the space of time in which they lived on the earth? Well, 1 Timothy 2:3-6, it says, For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who will have men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men.

The man, Christ Jesus, who gave himself ransom for all to be testified in due time. The restored gospel of Jesus Christ teaches the beautiful truth that we are all beloved sons and daughters of a caring Heavenly Father, and that He loves each one of us. Now, this is why He says in John chapter 3:13-15, it states, For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Well, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints teaches that Heavenly Father has made it possible for those who have passed away to hear and accept the message of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter chapter 3:18-20 teaches, For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit, by which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison, which sometimes were disobedient when once the long suffering of God waited in the days of Noah while the ark was preparing wherein few, that his eight souls were saved by water.

Now, I don't know about you, but I choose to believe in a loving heavenly Father who wouldn't condemn someone. Simply because they haven't had the chance to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Don't you? Well, question number 14. If baptism is required for salvation as taught by Jesus Christ, what happens to those that never had the chance to be baptized, such as infants that died in childbirth?

Now, you can find the answer in 1 Peter 3:18-20; John 3: 8; 1 Corinthians 15: 29. And of course, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Now, I hope you've enjoyed this episode of Gospel First Lesson and have found it inspiring. For more insights on God's plan of happiness for you, you can visit our website at www.gospelfirst.net.