5 Minutes in Church History with Stephen Nichols The Story of 5 Sermons
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Jan 7, 2026 Explore the intriguing motivations behind Jonathan Edwards' decision to publish a collection of sermons during a time of spiritual decline. Discover the key themes of these sermons, including insights on Ruth as a symbol of Gentile converts. Delve into the context of the 1734–35 revival and the issues plaguing the Northampton congregation, such as disputes over a new meetinghouse. Learn how Edwards aimed to remind the church of recent spiritual outpourings and warn against losing sight of profound spiritual truths.
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The Five Sermons Collected
- Jonathan Edwards collected five specific sermons preached in 1734–1735 and published them as Discourses on Various Important Subjects.
- The sermons include Justification by Faith Alone, Pressing into the Kingdom, Ruth's Resolution, The Justice of God, and The Excellencies of Christ.
Publication As Pastoral Remedy
- Edwards published the sermons to revive spiritual life amid decline and contention in his congregation.
- He intended the book to remind Northampton of the "wonderful pouring out of the Spirit" during the revival years.
Conflict During Revival
- Despite revival in 1734–1735, Edwards observed spiritual decline, near blindness to spiritual realities, and growing contention.
- Disputes over building a new church, costs, location, and pew assignments reflected deeper spiritual issues.
