Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God - Understanding the Concept of God's Mercy

What is the main message of Jonathan Edwards' sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God"?

A. The importance of good deeds
B. The idea of predestination
C. The necessity of God's mercy
D. The power of human will

Answer:

C. The necessity of God's mercy

Jonathan Edwards' sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" is a powerful and influential piece of religious literature. In this sermon, Edwards emphasizes the concept of God's mercy as the only thing that keeps sinners out of hell. He argues that sinners, all people, deserve to go to hell but it is only through God's mercy that they are saved from this fate.

Edwards paints a vivid picture of the danger and consequences of sin, warning his audience of the horrors of hell and the imminent punishment for their sins. However, he also conveys the idea that God's mercy is available to all who seek it, emphasizing the importance of repentance and turning to God for salvation.

Through his sermon, Edwards aims to instill a sense of fear and awe in his audience, urging them to reconsider their ways and seek God's forgiveness. He portrays God as both just and merciful, offering sinners a chance to be saved from eternal damnation through faith and repentance.