Discuss the signs of both spiritual renewal and spiritual decline as witnessed in the 18th and 19th centuries. Using the course reading and the video lecture material, evaluate and discuss the indications of God’s blessing and the indications of unfaithfulness and decline in the Church.
Using the selections from Jonathan Edwards and Charles Augustus Briggs, summarize some of the evidences of spiritual renewal and revival that Edwards witnessed in Northampton. Also summarize some of the indications of decline and unfaithfulness that can be detected in the writing of Briggs. Use specific quotations from the materials. Discuss any particular points that seem particularly important for believers today.
Reading:
Shaw, I. J. (2016). Christianity: The biography.
• Chapter 15: Enlightenment
• Chapter 16: Revolution
• Chapter 17: Challenge and Crisis
Edwards, J. (1737). A faithful narrative of the surprising work of God in the conversion of many hundred souls. Works of Jonathan Edwards, vol. 1, Banner of Truth. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/CB0129464714/ECCO?u=christian&sid=bookmark-ECCO&xid=08ae007f&pg=1
Briggs, C. A. (1890). Whither: A theological question for the times. 3rd ed. New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons. https://archive.org/details/whithertheolo00brig
