from Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God- what references in the sermon reveal Edward's implicit philosophical beliefs about divine mercy?
In Jonathan Edwards' sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," there are several references that reveal Edwards' implicit philosophical beliefs about divine mercy. Here are some of the key references:
1. Biblical References: Edwards relies heavily on biblical references throughout the sermon to support his beliefs. The sermon quotes scriptures such as Deuteronomy 32:35 ("Their foot shall slide in due time") and Psalm 73:18-19 ("Surely you set them in slippery places... how are they brought into desolation, as in a moment?").
These references emphasize the idea of divine justice and how sinners are at any moment exposed to the wrath of God. By highlighting biblical passages, Edwards suggests that divine mercy may be granted to those who repent and seek salvation.
2. Imagery of a Pit: Edwards frequently uses vivid imagery of a pit or a chasm to describe the perilous state of sinners. He describes them as hanging over a "bottomless pit" and being held by a "slender thread." This imagery illustrates Edwards' belief that sinners are constantly dangling over a pit of eternal damnation, and it emphasizes the urgency for repentance.
3. Appeals to Human Insignificance: Edwards also highlights the insignificance of human beings in the face of God's wrath. He describes sinners as "loathsome insects" and "spiders" that God abhors. This suggests that without divine mercy, humans are powerless and insignificant in comparison to God's divine power.
4. Emphasis on Total Depravity: Edwards' sermon also reflects his belief in the doctrine of total depravity, which suggests that all humans are inherently sinful and deserving of wrath. He describes the natural state of humanity as being "in sin" and "under condemnation," unable to save themselves. This belief reinforces the need for divine mercy and the urgency of repentance.
Overall, these references in "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" reveal Edwards' implicit philosophical beliefs about divine mercy, which center around the idea that without repentance, sinners are bound to face the imminent wrath of God, while highlighting the possibility of salvation through divine mercy for those who seek it.
To identify the references in the sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" that reveal Edward's implicit philosophical beliefs about divine mercy, you will need to closely analyze the text and look for specific passages or language that reflect his views on this subject. Here's a step-by-step approach to help you in this process:
1. Read the entire sermon: Begin by thoroughly reading "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" to understand Edwards' central message and rhetoric. Pay attention to how he portrays God's anger, punishment, and the consequences for sinners.
2. Highlight relevant passages: Identify and highlight any passages that directly address or allude to divine mercy. Look for instances where Edwards mentions attributes of God that may relate to mercy, such as compassion, forgiveness, or salvation.
3. Analyze the language and tone: Examine the tone Edwards uses when discussing divine mercy. Does he emphasize it as a prominent aspect of God's character, or does he downplay its significance? Note any contrasting or conflicting statements that may shed light on Edwards' beliefs about divine mercy.
4. Consider indirect implied references: Look beyond explicit mentions of divine mercy and consider any indirect references that might reveal Edwards' beliefs. For example, if he emphasizes the severity of God's wrath more than his redeeming qualities, it may suggest a less merciful philosophical stance.
5. Connect to the historical context: Take into account the historical and religious context in which Edwards delivered this sermon. Consider the beliefs and doctrines prevalent at the time, such as the Puritan theology of predestination and sin. This background understanding can provide insights into Edwards' philosophical beliefs about divine mercy.
By closely examining the sermon and following these steps, you can identify the references and passages in "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" that reveal Edward's implicit philosophical beliefs about divine mercy. Remember, text interpretation can vary, so it is essential to back up your analysis with evidence from the sermon itself.