Edward's Orthopraxy

I just finished a new book by Steven J. Lawson, Senior Pastor at Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, AL. Reformation Trust, a division of Ligonier Ministries, published The Unwavering Resolve of Jonathan Edwards in 2008.

Lawson's book primarily deals with Jonathan Edwards' Resolutions, a document he composed from mid 1722 to mid 1723 as a "practical expression" of his intention to "live out Reformed theology on a personal, experiential level." Lawson also offers a chapter (chapter 1) surveying the influential and admirable life of Edwards, which provides a good framework for studying the Resolutions. The Unwavering Resolve of Jonathan Edwards presents a good picture of the discipline and dedication one must possess in living a godly life.

After introducing Edwards, Lawson briefly introduces the Resolutions, and explains his dividing them into six categories: pursuing God's glory, battling sin, disciplined use of time, offering all to and for God, striving for "humility and love," and often self-searching for any characteristic not glorifying to God. Lawson proceeds to give an exposition of these six categories; he dedicates a chapter to each division, citing a few resolutions from each. Much to the benefit of the reader, Lawson spends a paragraph or two at the end of each chapter trying to make applicable Edwards' Resolutions. Lawson's writing is long with citations and short with personal analysis, which only serves (in my opinion) to emphasize the depth of his research. Lawson wisely notes that dialog between the other Edwardian writings (his Personal Narrative and diary in particular) is paramount to best understanding the Resolutions.

Below I share a resolution and a diary entry from Edwards, both of which most impacted me as I read through The Unwavering Resolve of Jonathan Edwards. I hope these two points will wet your appetite for this influential and practical book.

(Resolution 52) "I frequently hear persons in old age say how they would live, if they were to live their lives over again: resolved, that I will live just so as I can think I shall wish I had done, supposing I live to old age. July 8, 1723."

On the subject of spending God-allotted time judiciously, Lawson concludes that "[Edwards] could not waste time and bring honor to God" (chapter six). Consider this perspective on time: "Edwards understood that he could lose money and potentially recoup it later. He could lose his health and yet recover it. He could even lose a relationship and later restore it. But time lost could never be regained."

(Come on, Aaron. Get out of bed!)

(Diary Entry) "I think it would be advantageous every morning to consider my business and temptations; and what sins I shall be exposed to that day: and to make a resolution how to improve the day, and to avoid those sins."

Edwards was so intensely committed to avoiding sin, that he would "anticipate what sins he might be prone to in various situations" (chapter nine). I cannot help but think about the times when I (we?) blindly stumble into sin (think bitterness, jealousy, etc). Would to God that I might, like Edwards, proactively anticipate and avoid sin--even tempting situations.

Here is the Resolutions from The Jonathan Edwards Center at Yale University. I currenty have a copy of the Resolutions placed next to my bed to read through and consider how I can better live with my highest priority on God's glory.

I fully recommend this book to all who are serious about living to that end. Here it is. May growth and much spiritual dicipline ensue.

Semper Reformanda