Steven Curtis Chapman's Daughter Killed

I awoke this morning to learn that Steven Curtis Chapman's 5 year old daughter Maria was accidentally run over and killed by her brother. Our prayers are with the Chapman family during this time of loss. I am almost sure Maria is the inspiration for his song about Cinderella, and know that they will have many hard days ahead. You can read the story here. I had someone ask me recently about children who die prior to coming to know Christ as Savior and their state in eternity. Here is what I believe.

1. All have sinned. - Romans 3:23
2. Everyone must accept Christ as Savior. - John 3:18
3. Even a Child is know by his doings - Proverbs 20:11
4. There is a time when a person first understands the concept that they are a sinner.
- We would refer to this as the age of accountability.
- This may vary depending on the child.
- We should raise our children to accept Christ as soon as they realize that they "need" Christ.
5. Children who die before they are "Saved" are "Safe."
- By this we understand that God is righteous and does not condemn innocents.
6. Children who die before they accept Christ go to heaven.
- My belief in this is based on King David's words after losing a child.
- David grieves as long as the child is sick, so much that his servants fear telling him of its death.
- Here is what David says...

2 Samuel 12:22 - 23 (NKJV) ²²And he said, “While the child was alive, I fasted and wept; for I said, ‘Who can tell whether the Lord will be gracious to me, that the child may live?’ ²³But now he is dead; why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.”

- David faithfully understood that Though he could not bring the child back, that he would see him again.
- From this I believe that "Cinderella" Chapman has found her castle, and though we grieve for the family, we do not grieve for her. Please take a moment to pray especially for her brother who needs a special measure of grace.