Deep Dive into The Doctrine of Original Sin by Jonathan Edwards - The Evidence of Original Sin, from the Nature of Redemption, in the Procurement of It

Jonathan Edwards argues that Dr. Taylor’s theological scheme fundamentally contradicts the biblical account of redemption by rendering the death of Christ unnecessary. Edwards contends that Scripture consistently defines the Redeemer’s mission as saving sinners from sin and deserved destruction. However, Dr. Taylor’s system asserts that a vast portion of humanity—specifically infants—live and die perfectly innocent, having no sin charged to their account.

Edwards highlights the absurdity inherent in Dr. Taylor’s view of infant redemption. Taylor redefines death not as a judicial curse, but as a "medicine" and a "benefit" flowing from a covenant of grace. Edwards counters that if death is a benefit and infants are innocent, they require no Savior. It is illogical to speak of redeeming someone from a blessing or healing someone who has no disease. True redemption, Edwards insists, implies a rescue from God's wrath and a pre-existing state of ruin.

Furthermore, Edwards argues that Taylor’s principles make Christ’s death needless for adults as well. Taylor claims that all humans possess sufficient power to perform their whole duty and avoid sin completely. Edwards applies the apostolic warning that if righteousness can be obtained by the law—meaning, if humans have the natural capacity to fulfill moral obligations—then Christ is dead in vain.

Finally, Edwards attacks the notion that God lowers the standard of duty to match human weakness. If justice requires God to demand no more than humans can perform, then their safety is guaranteed by justice alone, not grace. By attributing sufficient power to humanity and denying the universality of sin, Taylor’s scheme effectively nullifies the need for an atoning sacrifice, reducing the "great redemption" to nothing for both infants and adults.

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

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