Baptism is perhaps the most basic ordinance in Christianity, and the question of the baptism of infants is certainly one of the most fundamental questions related to this ordinance. The largest Christian church in the world today, as well as many other churches, teaches that because of the original sin of Adam and Eve no person can enter heaven without baptism. Thus these churches deny that Jesus Christ atoned for original sin, and they say that little infants and others who die without baptism cannot be saved in heaven.
The Book of Mormon definitely teaches that Jesus Christ did atone for the original transgression of Adam and Eve, and little children do not need to be baptized until they arrive at the age of accountability and are responsible for their own acts.
The teachings of Mormon are clear and definite on this subject, and he says he obtained his information "by the power of the Holy Ghost" (Moroni 8:7) in a direct revelation from the Savior. In his letter to Moroni, Mormon mentions the following fundamental principles:
1. Repentance and baptism should be taught unto those who are accountable and capable of committing sin. (Verse 10.)
2. "Little children need no repentance, neither baptism" (verse 11), and ". . . little children are alive in Christ, even from the foundation of the world" (verse 12).
3. "All little children are alive in Christ, and also all they that are without the law." (Verse 22.)
4. "He that supposeth that little children need baptism is in the gall of bitterness and in the bonds of iniquity, for he hath neither faith, hope, nor charity." (Verse 14.)
5. "He that sayeth that little children need baptism denieth the mercies of Christ, and setteth at naught the atonement of him and the power of his redemption." (Verse 20.)
Mormon also indicates why he is so definite and strong in his teachings on this subject: "I speak it boldly; God hath commanded me." (Moroni 8:21.)
(For further information on topics related to this subject, read the material following: 2 Nephi 2:22-25; Mosiah 3:11, 16-18; 3 Nephi 27:13-18.)