Deep Dive into A History of the Work of Redemption by Jonathan Edwards - From Christ's Resurrection to the End of the World - The Success of Redemption from the Reformation to the Present Time

The Reformation, ignited by Martin Luther in 1515, signaled a monumental revival of the Christian church following a "dismal night" of spiritual darkness. This movement swiftly spread across Europe—reaching England, Scotland, and the Netherlands—and stripped the Pope of much of his authority. According to the sources, this era represents the biblical "fifth vial" poured upon the throne of the beast, which shook the foundations of the Romish church and reduced its dominion by nearly half.

Satanic opposition soon followed through five primary channels: the Council of Trent, which reaffirmed corruptions; secret conspiracies against Protestant leaders; open wars such as the Spanish invasion of England; and exquisite persecutions like the Inquisition and massacres in France. Finally, the rise of corrupt opinions, including Deism, Arianism, and Arminianism, sought to erode orthodoxy. Edwards highlights that while these forces were fierce, the "gates of hell" did not prevail against the Reformed church.

In more recent times, the gospel has seen success through propagation among the heathen in America, the East Indies, and Muscovy. Great revivals of vital piety occurred in Germany under August Herman Frank and in New England. However, the current state of the church is a mixture of decline and preparation. While the Protestant interest has diminished in size and licentiousness in principles has increased, the Pope’s influence continues to wane, and persecution has become less frequent.

Ultimately, the vast increase in human learning and the invention of printing act as a "handmaid" to divinity. Though currently misused by many, these tools serve as a providential preparation for a future outpouring of the Spirit. Much like a scaffold is erected before the completion of a great temple, this accumulation of knowledge is the framework God will use to support the final, glorious building of His kingdom across the globe.

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