(I'm posting another thread on the topic to keep from detracting from Eleanor's thread)
Why do you think covenant succession and similar views are becoming so popular? At least on the internet, I haven't really seen it in our churches, yet I'm sure their must be some.
Is it just a natural outgrowth from certain strands of Reformed thought.
John Chaney
"having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith . . ."Colossians 2:7
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given unto him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind." James 1:5,6 NKJV
I believe you have asked a question only God can answer. If you decide to ask of Him and you receive an answer, please share His answer with the rest of us.
IMHO, individuals would like to see their children saved--sometimes even at the expense of right doctrine-the Sovereignty of God. Many mean well when they attempt to promote this doctrine. It gives them simulated peace, but not a real peace. As matter a fact, one day after they have been deluding themselves with this false teaching they may wake up to find their child reprobate and then realize they have been lying not only to themselves, but their child, others, and their God as well.
It's always hard to interpret history because there are so many complicating factors. From my narrow perspective, its popularity is simply a consequence of its prior negligence.
I've read your question and I'm contemplating my reply. I notice in your userid info that you are theonomic. I'm not saying that all Theonomists advocate the covenant succession position, but their is common ground in overly emphasizing the OT theocracy at the expense of God's grace.
John Chaney
"having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith . . ."Colossians 2:7
Don't get nervous by the question, I almost made the same observation myself about the connection between a rise in theonomic and postmillennial leanings and children in the covenant. Go ahead and postulate, I won't get my feathers ruffled. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
