As a model of ministerial faithfulness, heavenly-mindedness and
self-effacing humility, he had few equals and perhaps no superiors.
by John M. Brentnall
This year marks the tercentenary of the birth of
Jonathan Edwards on
October 5, 1703. While we wish to take nothing from Him who declares: "I
will not give my glory to another ,yet it would be churlish and ungrateful
of us not to acknowledge God's gift of one of the most godly men to have
adorned His Church. Both spiritually and intellectually Edwards was raised
to the same high level as Augustine, Calvin and Owen, and by God's grace
has exercised a similar (though not such an extensive) influence.
As a model of ministerial faithfulness, heavenly-mindedness and
self-effacing humility, he had few equals and perhaps no superiors. Out
of
appreciation for Edwards' finest qualities, John 'Rabbi' Duncan was
constrained to say: "I would like to sit at Jonathan Edwards' feet,
to
learn what is true religion."
His calm and massive intellect was as comprehensive in its grasp of
Biblical truth (History of Redemption) as it was penetrating in its
diagnosis of the human heart (Religious Affections and sermons on the
state
of natural men) and logical in its pursuit of inferences from acknowledged
truths (Treatise on the Will).
His defences of the Biblical and Calvinistic doctrines of the sovereignty
of God in salvation, the impotence of the fallen human will and the
potency
of divine grace have never been answered. While his refined distinctions
(eg between 'natural' and 'moral ability', between 'common' and 'saving'
grace and between the 'view' and 'sense' of spiritual realities)
have been
challenged, yet rightly understood, they are thoroughly Scriptural.
Perhaps, however, his greatest contribution to theology is his setting
forth of the glory of God as the chief end of the whole creation,
and the
way in which he links this with His people's eternal enjoyment
of Himself.
In such exalted regions he resembles the great Puritan John Howe.
His
instrumental involvement in revivals - as preacher, diagnostic
soul-physician and historian - has served as a guide in this spiritual
mine-field to many unwary travellers.
Lastly, the touching beauty of his family life and the remarkable
influence
of the Edwards 'clan' on American Christianity leaves us in no
doubt as to
the rich blessing of our gracious covenant God on him and his
successors.
Though we are pygmies by comparison, may we seek grace to follow
him who,
with countless others, now inherits the promises of grace and
glory.
John M. Brentnall
The two volumed Works of Jonathan Edwards, the biography by Iain
Murray and
a number of the most important of his writings are published
by the Banner
of Truth
