Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) is considered by many to be one of the most significant American theologians. Even with such an intellect and depth of theology, Edwards maintained a keen focus on his pastoral responsibilities and his personal life in relation to God.

Jonathan Edwards was the only son of Timothy and Ester Stoddard Edwards. He had ten sisters—four older and six younger. He was the son and grandson of pastors. At the age of 13, Edwards was sent to Yale College to continue is education. There, after reading Timothy 1:17, his view of God expanded. He saw God as good, beautiful, and sovereign over the universe.

At age 19, Edwards moved to New York City and served as a supply pastor of a small Presbyterian church. He maintained a view of the moral life which was shaped by his Puritan Heritage, and felt a constant need to confess his sin.

After he had lived in New York for some time, his father helped him obtain a position at a church in Connecticut. Less than a year later, he became a tutor at Yale. Four years later, after battling significant illness and spiritual depression, he was ordained as assistant pastor to his grandfather. In July of that same year, Edwards married Sarah Pierpont, and just one year later, they had their first child.

Edwards worked under his grandfather for six years, and upon his grandfather’s death, he became senior pastor of the church in Northhampton, Massachusetts. It is said that his most significant pastoral contributions were made during his time at this church.

The Great Awakening, a period of tremendous spiritual revival,