A Glorious Work of God: Discerning True Revival | Jonathan Edwards

Deep Dive into Thoughts on Revival by Jonathan Edwards - Showing That the Extraordinary Work That Has of Late Been Going On in the Land, Is a Glorious Work of GodJonathan Edwards’ treatise defends the religious revival sweeping through New England, arguing it is a genuine and glorious work of God despite the controversies surrounding it. He identifies three primary errors made by critics who oppose the movement. First, they judge the work inappropriately by its unconventional origins and the unrefined ministers leading it, rather than evaluating its actual outcomes. Edwards insists the revival must be judged by its effects, not by the methods God uses to bring it about.Second, critics fail to use the Scriptures as their sole standard, relying instead on philosophy or historical precedent. They dismiss the revival because it involves intense emotions, which they wrongly view as inferior to the intellect. Edwards argues that true religion essentially consists in holy affections, such as a supreme love for God. Furthermore, critics inappropriately focus on involuntary bodily effects, such as trembling, fainting, or crying out. Edwards explains that these physical reactions are not condemned by Scripture; rather, intense spiritual revelations and views of eternal realities can naturally overwhelm the fragile human body.Third, opponents unjustly reject the entire revival because of incidental human errors. Edwards points out that human weakness, spiritual pride, and indiscreet zeal will inevitably mix with divine work, especially among new converts who lack maturity and experience. God permits these flaws to expose human frailty. Despite these irregularities, the revival has produced a profound moral transformation. Multitudes have abandoned vain pursuits, taverns, and frivolous behavior in favor of deep spiritual contemplation, love for God, and reconciliation with neighbors. Edwards concludes that this widespread awakening is an undeniable display of God's sovereign grace that far outweighs any associated human imperfections.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReformedExplainerWorship Music: https://suno.com/playlist/3a498d0f-c90e-4981-8aa7-59834e7239f7https://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730