Let me first say that I have not settled on this view--yet. Those with whom I have been discussing this on another board would say, though, that God exercises free grace at conception: He chooses the child, just as He chose the believing parents.

Conversely the problem I have with it is that if it is a promise, how is it that some are not saved? Some apparently don't get saved, like Eli's children who were unrighteous priests.. Those who hold this position say, 1. We cannot determine truly who is saved and who is not. 2. There is a lifetime during which the child may come to Christ, and it may happen after we, the parents, are dead.

I do not believe in baptismal regeneration, but I could believe that regeneration and salvation is promised to the baptised first--at some point in their lives--, just as Christ came first for the Jews, then for the Gentiles.

I'm not looking for a free ride here, either. I'm fully--painfully, even-- aware that the training of our children has not been what it should have or could have been. I repent! The guilt I feel over this is nearly overwhelming. I have little left but God's mercy in this matter, and alot of agonised prayers.

I'll try to find that thread.

Stand Fast, Craigellachie!