Jonathan Edwards: ‘Sinners in the hands of an angry God’

He began his college studies at the age of 12 at Yale College (later Yale University) in New Haven, Connecticut, and received both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Yale. He first ministered in the Presbyterian church from 1722-1723, and then returned to Yale for a two year tutorship, 1724-1726. He then went as the associate pastor in Northampton, Mass., under his grandfather Solomon Stoddard. In 1727, he married Sarah Pierpoint and together they raised 11 children. 

Upon his grandfather’s death in 1729, Jonathan Edwards became the pastor of the First Church of Northampton and remained as their pastor until 1750. During his pastorate in Northampton, a revival broke out in 1734, and his powerful sermons began to be published and widely circulated. In 1740, the English evangelist George Whitefield came to assist Edwards in preaching the Gospel in New England. It was during this time that a “Great Awakening” to the redemptive work of God Almighty gained spiritual power. In 1741, in Edfield, Conn. Edwards preached his powerfully convicting and long-remembered sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.” God continued to rain down his blessings, and thousands repented of their sins responding to the Gospel message by surrendering their lives to Jesus Christ. This movement of faith that swept the American colonies helped unite the 13 colonies prior too the American Revolution. 

In 1750, Edwards left his church and became a missionary to the Native Americans in Stockbridge, Mass., and continued to write and preach powerful Christian sermons. Then the 1758, he was called and installed as the third presidents of the College of New Jersey (later Princeton). Shortly after he had assumed the presidency he was inoculated against smallpox, but became very ill and died after two months. He earthly sojourn was over at the age of 54, but my how God used and worked through this brilliant and dedicated man of faith. He was a vital part of America’s religious heritage. 

Are we willing to let God work through us as He did through Jonathan Edwards? Can this be our prayer: “Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way! Thou art the potter, I am the clay! Mold me and make me after thy will, while I am waiting yielding and still.” (Words by Adelaide A. Pollard). 

Peace!