Meaning: This quote by Arthur Middleton, a British theologian and author, encapsulates the idea that the essence of the Church, or the Christian faith, should be distinguished by its supernatural nature. Middleton emphasizes the importance of recognizing the divine intervention and spiritual significance in key aspects of Christian belief, such as the incarnation, redemption, and the Kingdom of God. In this analysis, we will delve into the deeper meaning of Middleton's words and explore their relevance within the context of Christian theology.

The Church's note must be a supernatural note which distinguishes incarnation from immanence, redemption from evolution, the Kingdom of God from mere spiritual process.

Middleton's assertion that "The Church's note must be a supernatural note" underscores the fundamental belief in the transcendent nature of Christianity. This implies that the essence of the Church and its teachings should not be confined to or explained solely by natural or human processes. Instead, it should be characterized by a supernatural quality that sets it apart from ordinary or worldly phenomena. This notion aligns with the core tenets of Christian faith, which assert the existence of a divine, transcendent reality that surpasses the limitations of the material world.

The distinction between "incarnation from immanence" reflects the Christian doctrine of the Incarnation, which holds that Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, took on human form. This event is regarded as a pivotal moment in the Christian narrative, signifying the union of the divine and human nature in the person of Jesus Christ. By highlighting the difference between incarnation and immanence, Middleton emphasizes the unique and supernatural nature of Christ's embodiment, contrasting it with the notion of God being inherently present within the material world.

Similarly, the differentiation of "redemption from evolution" addresses the Christian concept of redemption, which centers on the belief in the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the salvation of humanity. In contrast, the idea of evolution pertains to the natural or gradual development of living organisms over time. Middleton's juxtaposition of these terms underscores the transcendent and salvific nature of redemption, distinct from the secular concept of evolutionary progress.

Moreover, the contrast between "the Kingdom of God from mere spiritual process" draws attention to the Christian understanding of the Kingdom of God as a divine and eschatological reality, rather than a purely internal or psychological experience. The Kingdom of God represents the reign and sovereignty of God, which transcends earthly realms and temporal processes. Middleton's emphasis on the supernatural aspect of the Kingdom of God serves to underscore its significance as a transcendent and ultimate divine order.

In essence, Middleton's quote serves as a reminder of the supernatural and transcendent dimensions of the Christian faith. It emphasizes the distinctiveness of Christian beliefs and doctrines in contrast to secular or naturalistic interpretations. By highlighting the supernatural nature of key theological concepts such as the Incarnation, redemption, and the Kingdom of God, Middleton underscores the foundational principles of Christian theology and the transcendent reality upon which it is based.

In conclusion, Middleton's quote encapsulates the notion that the essence of the Church and Christian faith should be characterized by a supernatural quality that distinguishes it from purely natural or worldly phenomena. By emphasizing the transcendent nature of key theological concepts, Middleton reinforces the distinctiveness of Christian beliefs and the foundational principles of Christian theology. This perspective serves to reaffirm the supernatural dimension of the Christian faith and its significance in understanding key aspects of Christian doctrine.