Présentation de l'éditeur
Jonathan Edwards' excellent account of the process of conversion to Christianity remains a vital source of inspiration to believers to this day.
First delivered in the 1730s, Edwards' theological discussions galvanized residents of the nascent colonial society in which he lived. This book, published in 1746, represents a collection of his lectures and preaching. Together these provide an intimate look at the attitudes to Christian faith which led to the First Great Awakening in Europe and colonial North America.
This treatise contains a thorough examination of the Christian conversion process, and the attributes by which the believer successfully aligns himself to God. It would prove influential to preachers for generations to follow; Edwards' emphasis on individual piety and a rich, inner understanding of the Bible and the word of God were a breath of fresh air to a faith formerly couched in old traditions and ceremonial procedure. His theology allowed all to participate and understand faith in an active, devotional manner.
As one of the vanguard of Christian preachers in the American colonies, Jonathan Edwards would oversee the First Great Awakening in his locality of Massachusetts. The sudden reigniting of belief greatly reinforced the resolve of colonial settlers in North America, going some distance to unite them on the often harsh and dangerous conditions of the frontier.
Owing to Edwards' intense efforts, many converted to Christianity with the distinct impression of Jesus Christ as their savior. This is contrasted to belief in ancient ceremony and public displays of tradition. Edwards' held that devotion should be fostered within the human soul, and that believers should cleave to numerous affections to attain true devotion to the Lord.
It was this conviction which led to Christianity regaining great influence among the settlers of New England. One may also infer the beginnings of the American evangelism tradition, which also placed great emphasis upon inner spiritual growth and closeness to God and Jesus Christ.
In all, A Treatise Concerning Religious Affections remains a landmark text in the history of Christianity. To a large extent, it acts as a superb embodiment the revivalist tradition that so strengthened the faith during the 18th century.
Présentation de l'éditeur
There is no question whatsoever, that is of greater importance to mankind, and that it more concerns every individual person to be well resolved in, than this: What are the distinguishing qualifications of those that are in favor with God, and entitled to his eternal rewards? Or, which comes to the same thing, What is the nature of true religion? And wherein do lie the distinguishing notes of that virtue and holiness that is acceptable in the sight of God? But though it be of such importance, and though we have clear and abundant light in the word of God to direct us in this matter, yet there is no one point, wherein professing Christians do more differ one from another. It would be endless to reckon up the variety of opinions in this point, that divide the Christian world; making manifest the truth of that declaration of our Savior, “Strait is the gate and narrow is the way, that leads to life, and few there be that find it.” The consideration of these things has long engaged me to attend to this matter, with the utmost diligence and care, and exactness of search and inquiry, that I have been capable of. It is a subject on which my mind has been peculiarly intent, ever since I first entered on the study of divinity. But as to the success of my inquiries it must be left to the judgment of the reader of the following treatise.
Les informations fournies dans la section « A propos du livre » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.
