First Great Awakening
Shift in Religion
church
The First Great Awakening unfolded in the New England colonies during the 1700s. This primarily Christian movement marked a departure from church-led faith, emphasizing a personal connection to Christianity.
Shift in Religious Thinking and Practices
The religious landscape experienced a change during the First Great Awakening, moving away from ritualistic practices toward an individualized approach.
Christianity's Evolution: Religion transitioned from authoritative, ritual-based guidance to a focus on individuals' personal relationships with God and the impact of religion on their daily lives.
Jonathan Edwards
Jonathan Edwards, a preacher from Massachusetts, played a role in the First Great Awakening with his emphasis on the emotion of religion.
Sermon Highlight: In 1741, Edwards delivered a sermon titled "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," illustrating the emotional connection he sought to instill.
Anti-Hierarchy Stance: Edwards rejected hierarchical structures in the church, advocating for a shift in concern from the opinions of church leaders to a focus on individuals' relationship with God.
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During the First Great Awakening, religion became more __________.
pagan
controlled
personal