Jonathan Edwards for Armchair Theologians

by Byrd, James P.

• ISBN13: 9780664231996
• ISBN10: 0664231993
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2008-10-03
• Publisher: Westminster John Knox Pr

Summary

"Written by experts but designed for the novice, the Armchair series provides accurate, concise, and witty overviews of some of the most profound moments and theologians in Christian history. Of no exception, this illuminating volume introduces the life and writings of the great American theologian and preacher Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758). The most widely studied figure in American religious history and an iconic figure of the American colonial period, Edwards is well known and highly regarded as a stalwart defender of Calvinist theology and his Puritan heritage. As James P. Byrd deftly reveals, however, Edwards was also a brilliant thinker and passionate pastor who wrestled continuously with the most important issue of his time: the relationship between faith and reason. Exploring his life, most important writings, and enduring legacies, Jonathan Edwards for Armchair Theologians provides an engaging overview of a man far more complex and multifaceted than most understand."--BOOK JACKET.

Author Biography

James P. Byrd is Assistant Dean for the Graduate Department of Religion and Assistant Professor of American Religious History at Vanderbilt University.

Table of Contents

Introduction
The Young Edwards: Exploring Divine Beauty (Even in Spiders)	p. 1
An Affection for Revival	p. 35
Exodus from Northampton	p. 61
Freedom of the Will?	p. 77
Original Sin	p. 103
Creation and True Virtue	p. 127
A Legacy Begun: The Edwards Ethos	p. 147
Notes	p. 175
For Further Reading	p. 183
Index	p. 191
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