119. The History of Christian Optimism (Interview with George Grant) | A Practical Postmillennialism

The PRODCAST

Summary In this conversation, Kendall Lankford interviews Dr. George Grant, an expert in history and a pastor. They discuss the importance of understanding God's work in history and the role of optimism in eschatology. They explore the different eschatological views throughout church history, including historic premillennialism, optimistic amillennialism, and optimistic postmillennialism. They highlight the predominant view of optimism in the early church and the Middle Ages, and the shift towards pessimism during the medieval period. They also discuss the distinction between optimistic amillennialism and postmillennialism. During the 14th century, Christians faced a time of trial with events like the Black Death and the Hundred Years War. However, amidst the pessimism, there were renewal movements led by figures like Jerome of Prague, Jan Hus, and John Wycliffe that laid the foundation for the Reformation. The reformers, influenced by these movements, were optimistic about the future and believed in the power of the gospel. However, over time, the church turned inward and lost its optimism, leading to the decay of culture. Today, there is a resurgence of the gospel and a recovery of biblical truth, but it requires faithful living and a focus on the next right thing. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding God's work in history is important for believers Optimism is a key aspect of eschatology in the early church and the Middle Ages Different eschatological views have existed throughout church history Pessimism became more prevalent during the medieval period There is a distinction between optimistic amillennialism and postmillennialism Renewal movements in the 14th century laid the foundation for the Reformation The reformers were optimistic about the future and believed in the power of the gospel The church turned inward and lost its optimism, leading to the decay of culture There is a resurgence of the gospel and a recovery of biblical truth happening today Faithful living and a focus on the next right thing are essential in this cultural moment CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:26 Understanding God's Work in History 13:46 Optimism in Eschatology: Early Church and Middle Ages 31:17 Distinguishing Between Optimistic Amillennialism and Postmillennialism 32:57 The Erosion of Optimism in the 14th Century 34:10 Renewal Movements and the Foundation for the Reformation 36:00 The Optimism of the Reformers 37:01 The Decay of Culture and the Loss of Optimism 44:00 The Resurgence of the Gospel and Recovery of Biblical Truth 55:30 Faithful Living in a Cultural Moment The Shepherd's Church 10 Jean Ave, Chelmsford, MA 01824 [e-mail] | [phone] Sunday School @ 8:30am | Lord’s Day Worship @ 10am Follow Us: Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on new articles and episodes.

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