Deep Dive into The Doctrine of Original Sin by Jonathan Edwards - The Evidence of the Doctrine of Original Sin from What the Scripture Teaches of the Application of Redemption

Jonathan Edwards argues that the doctrine of original sin is irrefutably proven by examining the scriptural requirements for the "application of redemption." By employing a method of comparing scripture with scripture, Edwards demonstrates that various biblical metaphors—including regeneration, repentance, conversion, circumcision of the heart, spiritual baptism, and spiritual resurrection—are not distinct events, but synonymous terms describing a single, radical "change of state" absolutely necessary for salvation.

Edwards contends that this transformation is not merely an improvement of natural habits, but a total renovation of the human soul. He uses the specific nature of the required "cure" to deduce the nature of the "disease" inherent in humanity. For example, he argues that because the Bible demands a "spiritual baptism" or washing for everyone, it implies that every human is born in a state of moral pollution. Similarly, the universal requirement to receive a "new heart" serves as proof that the native human heart is a "heart of stone."

Furthermore, Edwards identifies the "old man" that must be crucified and put off as the corrupt nature received in the "first birth" from Adam. He asserts that if every person must undergo a "spiritual resurrection" to enter God's kingdom, it follows that every person is born spiritually dead. By emphasizing that even religious leaders like Nicodemus were told they must be "born again," Edwards establishes that this corruption is not limited to heathens but is universal to the entire human race. Ultimately, Edwards concludes that the magnitude of the remedy—which involves a literal "new creation" of the spirit—provides abundant evidence of the total ruin characterizing man's natural state.

Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologian

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