How can infants be included in the doctrine of effectual calling?

• A. They are inherently sinful
• B. They are incapable of understanding
• C. They may be elected by God
• D. They do not require salvation

Answer: (C)

The doctrine of effectual calling emphasizes that God’s purpose in salvation extends to individuals whom He has elected, including infants. This inclusion is grounded in the belief that God's election is not limited by age or understanding but is instead based on His sovereign choice. Infants, while they may lack the capacity for conscious faith or understanding, can still be within the covenant community and beneficiaries of God's grace through election. The idea is that God, in His mercy, can choose to bring salvation and effectual calling to infants, ensuring they are part of His redemptive plan.

The other choices, while touching on aspects of human nature and need for salvation, do not align with the understanding of effectual calling in relation to infants as encapsulated in the doctrine. The belief in inherited sinfulness or incapacity to understand does not negate God's ability to elect individuals for salvation. Additionally, the notion that infants do not require salvation does not align with traditional views about human sinfulness and the need for grace.