Extraordinary Prayer for the Advance of Christ’s Kingdom | Jonathan Edwards

Deep Dive into Extraordinary Prayer for the Revival of Religion and the Advancement of Christ's Kingdom on Earth by Jonathan Edwards - Explanatory IntroductionThe provided text outlines the introduction and prefaces to Jonathan Edwards's work advocating for a global, united effort in extraordinary prayer to ignite a religious revival and advance Christ's earthly kingdom. This initiative was originally inspired by a memorial from Scottish ministers who had established a concert for prayer and sought the participation of their Christian brethren in America and beyond.The 1789 preface by English editor John Sutcliff explains that the work was republished to encourage various denominations, including Baptists and Paedobaptists, to sustain their monthly prayer meetings dedicated to the spread of religion. Sutcliff emphasizes that while Christians may hold diverse theological views or interpretations of prophecy, they must unite in prayer against the forces of sin and spiritual error. He envisions thousands of believers gathering in small bands, offering united prayers that rise like ascending clouds of incense before the Most High.Similarly, the 1748 American editors trace the biblical promise of Christ's triumph over Satan, noting that saints throughout history have earnestly prayed for the worldwide expansion of His peaceful kingdom. The editors urge believers to increase their prayers, even in the face of prophetic warnings regarding the severe persecution of witnesses. They argue that impending trials necessitate even more fervent prayer for suffering graces and for hastening the anticipated era of divine glory.In the opening section, Edwards begins his exposition of Zechariah 8:20-22, which depicts people from numerous cities and strong nations enthusiastically gathering to seek the Lord. Edwards argues that this vision was never fulfilled during Old Testament times. Instead, it anticipates the latter-day glory of the Christian church, symbolizing the vast calling of the Gentiles, the deliverance from mystical Babylon, and an unprecedented era of global peace and unified worship.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