The Essential Jonathan Edwards: An Introduction to the Life and Teaching of America’s Greatest Theologians, is a biography of one of America’s best known early ministers. Edwards, who came from a line of ministers, was schooled in Latin and other subjects by his father from a young age. Edwards took his faith and his schooling seriously, giving the valedictory address in Latin.
Edwards is perhaps best known for his sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God”. It is said that while his delivery may have been dry, the congregants cried out in fear at the picture he painted of their nearness to hell.
Edwards was a part of several revivals and spiritual awakenings of his day. Still he met with frustration in matters such as his parishioners assigning seats in the church based on wealth, his inability to force a young man to marry the young woman he had impregnated, and negotiating for a salary raise.
Besides being a biography of the famous preacher, this book also takes a look at Edwards’ doctrinal positions. The information is presented in a scholarly manner, citing references. If you want to read about early American church history or about Jonathan Edwards this book affords a great opportunity.