Jonathan Edwards' Sermon: Evoking Fear in Sinners

Jonathan Edwards, a prominent American preacher during the Great Awakening, delivered one of his most famous sermons, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," in 1741. In this sermon, Edwards aimed to evoke a profound emotional response from his congregation, encouraging them to feel fear for their sinful nature and the consequences of their actions. By analyzing the text and considering historical context, it becomes evident that Edwards strategically used vivid imagery, biblical references, and theological arguments to instill fear in his listeners. This essay will explore the techniques employed by Edwards to evoke fear, the significance of this emotion in the context of his sermon, and its lasting influence on American religious culture.

Body

Edwards skillfully employs vivid imagery throughout his sermon to intensify the emotional impact on his congregation. For instance, he vividly describes sinners as "hanging by a slender thread, with the flames of divine wrath flashing about it" (Edwards 5). This image evokes a visceral fear of imminent damnation, as the thread symbolizes the fragile state of sinners' lives and the flames represent the wrath of God. By presenting a vivid and terrifying image, Edwards effectively taps into the congregation's emotions, ensuring they experience fear and the urgency to seek salvation.

Another technique Edwards employs to evoke fear is the use of biblical references and his position as an authoritative figure. Throughout the sermon, he quotes extensively from the Bible, emphasizing passages that depict God's wrath and judgment. By incorporating biblical authority, Edwards reinforces the seriousness of his message and creates a sense of divine inevitability. For example, he cites Deuteronomy 32:35, stating that "their foot shall slide in due time" (Edwards 4). This biblical reference reinforces the idea that sinners are constantly at risk of falling into damnation, further amplifying the fear among his listeners.

In addition to vivid imagery and biblical references, Edwards also employs theological arguments and rational appeals to evoke fear. He emphasizes the theological concept of original sin, arguing that all human beings are inherently sinful and deserving of divine punishment. By presenting this argument, Edwards taps into the deep-seated fear of eternal damnation that many individuals hold. Moreover, he appeals to rationality by providing logical explanations for his assertions, such as the idea that God's mercy is the only factor preventing immediate damnation. These arguments appeal to both the emotions and intellect of his congregation, reinforcing their fear and prompting them to seek repentance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jonathan Edwards' sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" sought to evoke fear among his congregation. Through vivid imagery, biblical references, and theological arguments, Edwards aimed to make his listeners acutely aware of the consequences of their sinful actions. By instilling fear, Edwards intended to prompt his audience to seek salvation and turn away from their wicked ways. This sermon not only had a significant impact on the religious culture of its time but also left a lasting influence on American religious traditions. Edwards' ability to elicit fear through his persuasive techniques demonstrates the power of emotion in shaping religious experiences and beliefs.

Bibliography

Edwards, Jonathan. "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God." Yale University, Avalon Project, 1741, avalon.law.yale.edu/18th_century/edwards.asp.