How young can you be and ask Jesus to be your Savior?

Answer

There is no specific age requirement for salvation. Jesus Himself said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” «But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. », (Matthew 19:14). Once children comprehend that they have sinned «for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; », (Romans 3:23), that Jesus died to atone for their sins (Romans 5:8;Romans 6:23), and that they must trust in Jesus for salvation «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. », (John 3:16), they are old enough to be saved.

A child does not need to grasp all the intricate aspects of the doctrine of salvation. The Bible often urges us to have faith like a child (Matthew 18:4;Mark 10:15;Luke 18:17). It is crucial that parents ensure their children understand the fundamental issues (as mentioned above), but the assurance of Acts 16:31 applies equally to adults and children: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.”

Little children, whether born to believers or unbelievers, may be chosen by God, redeemed through Christ’s sacrifice, and experience the work of the Holy Spirit in their hearts, thus entering heaven. The exact moment in their lives when they reach this understanding is not specified.

When they come to a realization of these things will vary from child to child. Some young children have especially tender hearts and, upon hearing that Jesus died for them, are immediately aware of their sinful natures and are compelled to respond. Others of more sanguine personalities may not come to this awareness until they are much older. Only the Lord knows the thoughts of the heart, and we trust Him “to seek and save that which is lost” «For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost. », (Luke 19:10) according to His perfect will and timing.