I’ve been recently reading some of the memoirs of Jonathan Edwards, from the 2 volume set, The Works of Jonathan Edwards, graciously given to me by my wife for our tenth year of marriage. Today I read a letter written by Edwards to Mr. Gillespie, who had written Edwards seeking a correspondence regarding Edward’s book, Religious Affections. In my opinion Religious Affections is one of the greatest books every written outside the Bible. (emphasis on period) The depths of that book I have scarcely understood but with each reading of it I am moved to depths of which I’ve never been. Anyway, Mr. G has raised objections to two pages within the book, hardly reason or worthy of a response considering Edward’s position and load of work. However, Edwards is far more graceful than I. But what’s even more revealing is Edward’s peaceful words that could only come from a man full of Christ.
Edwards writes: As to the objections you make against some things contained in my work On Religious Affections, I am sorry you did not read the book through before you made them; if you had, perhaps the difficulties would not have appeared quite so great. As to what is contained in the 78th and 79th pages, I suppose there is not the least difference of opinion between you and me, unless it be concerning the signification and propriety of expressions. I am fully of your mind, and always without the least doubt of it…
Edwards then goes on toward a lengthy defense of his theology, defending himself a Calvinist against another Calvinist brother who is parsing words. (Calvinist have a way of doing that, God bless us.) After lengthy, and I mean lengthy defense He then concludes and in Edwards style of signing off, “Hoping that you will accept my letter with candour, and remember me in your prayers, I subscribe myself your affectionate and obliged brother and servant, Jonathan Edwards.”
Edwards’ intellect is beyond comparison in 18th century America. But equal to that intellect is a man’s affections under the control of God. I too often take dissent personally and want to strike back in emotional anger, yet Edwards is so full of God He takes it in stride, almost expectingly and he gives a worthy defense full of grace. I’ve never deluded myself into believing I could even hold an ounce of knowledge to that which Edwards held, however, His affections were passionately rich and under the sovereign power of God, that I do pray to attain.
