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An unpublished treatise on the Trinity

Jonathan Edwards

Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) was an influential Congregational minister, often referred to as America's greatest theologian. Born in Conneticut to religious and well-educated parents (his father was a Congregational pastor), he initially studied at home (including Latin, Greek, and Hebrew), before graduating from Yale in 1720. He was well-read, and became familiar with the philosophical and scientific currents of the day (the writings of Newton, Locke, and Henry More). In 1727 he was ordained pastor in Northampton, Massachusetts, alongside his grandfather Solomon Stoddard, where he ministered until 1750. During this period Edwards' preaching, along with that of George Whitefield, became part of what is called the First Great Awakening. This is reflected in his powerful sermons from the 1730's and 40's. The later writings, many published after his death, show a more mature and deepened thought, touching with profound insight upon matters of theology, human psychology, and morality.

A concise discussion of the Trinity along Augustinian theological lines, with central emphasis on the Spirit of God.

While most of Edwards' theological works may be said to be primarily soteriological – relating to salvation, sin, and human nature – throughout all his writings the central importance of the Spirit of God at work in the heart of the believer is abundantly clear. As such, the Divine Nature is implicitly, if not explicitly, a fundamental doctrine. Edwards treats this doctrine directly in this short unpublished treatise. He follows the Augustinian tradition in describing the Holy Spirit principally in terms of Love – love between the Father and Son, and between God and the believer.

Inspirational & Devotional

Holy Spirit