Edwards' Sermon at the Treaty Signing

In August 1751, Jonathan Edwards delivered a sermon at a treaty signing with the Mohawks that aimed to secure land and educational opportunities for the Native Americans. This treaty was politically driven amid the conflicts of the Seven Years' War, as the English sought to align with Native tribes. In his sermon, Edwards highlighted the fallen state of humanity and the need for sharing the gospel, emphasizing the moral obligation to preach God's Word rather than exploit the Native Americans for personal gain. He concluded his message by inviting them to embrace the illuminating power of the gospel, which he described as infinitely brighter than the sun, reinforcing the spiritual responsibility of Christians towards their neighbors.