Meaning: The quote "The Reformation did not directly touch the question of the true character of God's church" is attributed to John Darby, a prominent figure in the history of the Christian church. This statement reflects the perspective of Darby and his views on the Reformation, a significant period in Christian history marked by religious and social upheaval.

The Reformation, which began in the 16th century, was a movement that sought to reform the Roman Catholic Church and ultimately led to the creation of Protestantism. It was characterized by the rejection of certain doctrines and practices of the Catholic Church, as well as the emergence of new theological perspectives and ecclesiastical structures. The Reformation was driven by a desire to return to the fundamental teachings of Christianity as articulated in the Bible, and to reform what were perceived as corruptions within the Church.

John Darby, a clergyman and theologian, is known for his role in the development of Dispensationalism, a theological framework that emphasizes a strict interpretation of biblical prophecy and eschatology. In the context of the quote, Darby's statement suggests that, in his view, the Reformation did not directly address the fundamental nature of the Church as ordained by God.

Darby's assertion may be understood in several ways. One interpretation is that the Reformation, while bringing about significant changes in Christian theology and practice, did not fully address the nature and structure of the Church as intended by God. According to this view, the Reformation focused primarily on doctrinal disputes and ecclesiastical authority, rather than on the deeper question of what constitutes the true character of God's church.

Another interpretation of the quote could be that Darby believed the Reformation did not adequately address certain key aspects of ecclesiology, the study of the nature and purpose of the Church. This could include issues such as the organization of the Church, the role of clergy and laity, the understanding of sacraments, and the relationship between the Church and the broader society. From this perspective, Darby may have felt that the Reformation left important questions about the nature of the Church unresolved.

It is important to note that Darby's perspective on the Reformation and the nature of the Church reflects his own theological framework and interpretation of Christian history. His statement invites further exploration and discussion about the relationship between the Reformation and the broader understanding of the Church within the Christian tradition.

In summary, the quote "The Reformation did not directly touch the question of the true character of God's church" attributed to John Darby encapsulates his perspective on the limitations of the Reformation in addressing fundamental aspects of the nature and purpose of the Church. Whether interpreted in terms of ecclesiology, theological emphasis, or historical context, Darby's statement prompts consideration of the ongoing dialogue and development of Christian thought regarding the nature of the Church and its relationship to God's purposes.