Another problem: 2) if Edwards and others were continually in the world, trying to convert it, that does not however connote respect for the world itself; indeed, it usually means the opposite of that. The world is seen as evil in itself, and can only become good to the extent that it reflects another, more divine sphere. So it would not quite be right to imply that Edwards or Calvinism really, fully respected the world.

More intresting to me, are 3) those moment when heaven comes down to earth; when God made the material earth (cf. “world”) and said it was “good,” not evil. Which gives a far more fundamental dignity and worth to the earth.

4) Edward’s deification or baptism of “atoms” might be closer to the mark; but still not quite as good in justifying the earth, the world, again. And rediscovering Christianity as more compatible with science. Which would be my own goal.