Skip to main content
Chaptra
Cover of The hand of Providence : $b as shown in the history of nations and individuals, from the great apostasy to the restoration of the gospel

The hand of Providence : $b as shown in the history of nations and individuals, from the great apostasy to the restoration of the gospel

Written by J. H. (Joseph Harvey) Ward

Not rated yet — tap a star to review it
World historyChurch historyGreat Apostasy (Mormon doctrine)

Chaptra reads alongside you — AI insights, chapter breakdowns and reader discussions for every book. Join free

About this book

"The Hand of Providence: As Shown in the History of Nations and Individuals" by Elder J. H. Ward is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the concept of divine providence throughout history, focusing on significant events from the Great Apostasy to the Restoration of the Gospel. Major themes include the injustices faced by early Christians, the rise and spread of Islam, the Crusades, and the evolution of societies influenced by these faiths. The opening of the book sets a somber tone, discussing the destruction of Jerusalem and the subsequent apostasy of the early Christian church. It outlines the brutal siege led by the Romans under Emperor Titus, where extreme famine and internal conflict led to horrific acts of desperation among the population. This historical account emphasizes the belief that these events were part of a larger divine plan, suggesting that the injustices endured and the suffering of the faithful were instrumental in the unfolding of God's providential design. The author aims to instill a sense of purpose in the reader by highlighting the overarching narrative of faith and redemption amidst historical turmoil.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The hand of Providence : $b as shown in the history of nations and individuals, from the great apostasy to the restoration of the gospel, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 12 hours
  • intermediate
  • somber
  • didactic
  • historical

J. H. Ward's "The Hand of Providence" offers a sweeping historical narrative, interpreted through the lens of divine intervention, spanning from the Great Apostasy to the Restoration of the Gospel. The book posits that major historical events, including the destruction of Jerusalem, the persecution of early Christians, the rise of Islam, and the Crusades, are not random occurrences but integral parts of God's overarching plan. Ward aims to demonstrate how suffering and historical turmoil serve a divine purpose, ultimately leading to a predetermined spiritual redemption. Through this theological framework, the author seeks to instill a profound sense of purpose and faith in his readers, highlighting God's continuous guidance in human affairs.

“"The destruction of Jerusalem stood as a solemn testament to the consequences of apostasy, a prelude to the long night of spiritual darkness."”

Key themes

Divine Providence
This is the central, overarching theme. The book argues that all historical events, from major wars and societal shifts to individual suffering, are not random but are orchestrated by God's guiding hand. It posits that there is an ultimate purpose and design behind all human history, leading towards a specific spiritual outcome.
Apostasy and Restoration
This theme forms the theological backbone of the historical narrative. Ward details the concept of an initial pure Christian church, its subsequent decline into 'Great Apostasy' (characterized by doctrinal corruption and loss of divine authority), and the eventual necessity and fulfillment of a 'Restoration of the Gospel' to re-establish true Christianity.
Suffering and Redemption
The book explores how suffering, persecution, and historical injustices are not merely negative experiences but are integral to God's plan, serving as catalysts for spiritual growth, judgment, and ultimately, leading to a form of redemption or purification. It suggests that adversity has a divine purpose.

Worth discussing

How does J. H. Ward's concept of 'divine providence' influence his interpretation of historical events like the destruction of Jerusalem or the Crusades?

Chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, character arcs and the full thematic analysis come with a free account.

Sign up freeLog in

Discussions

No one has started one yet

Join

Questions this book opens up

No discussions yet

Be the first to start a discussion about this book!

Sign up to start the discussion

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to review this book!