affections much of true religion lies in the affections

Much of authentic religion: The role of passions

Much of authentic religion, according to Edwards, is found in the passions. He depicts loves as the springboard for all human activity. True religion, he believes, is always a question of the heart (Christianity Today).

The precarious nature of religion: Avoiding emotion and instincts

Religion has no business without feelings. Religion, on the other hand, is “precarious,” according to Chauncy, because it is founded on feelings, sometimes known as passions. Neither emotion nor “animal instincts” must govern the religious experience. Affections, according to Edwards, are the more strong and practical exercises of inclination and will of soul. As a result, they might be either good or negative. Religious affections are basically an application of will towards an external object, God. The soul bears two faculties that are related, that is inclination and perception.

True religion: The importance of affections

In his book, Religious Affections Edwards claims that true religion is largely consists of affections (Edwards). They are an essential part of true religion and maybe even more than just that. True religion is exhibited through strong and vigorous exercises that show the inclination of someone’s will. Edwards viewed with suspicion the emotional excesses of the revivals and therefore promoted repentance and heartfelt devotion to God (Edwards). As for Chauncy, the excesses of the revivals showed its true nature. It was in no way the work of God’s Holy Spirit but rather just a case of uncontrolled emotionalism.

The implications of Edwards’ argument

The implications of Edwards’ argument is it gives a reason to believe while for those who believe and those who are yet to. He engaged his head and heart in trying to live by the gospel.

Changing religion in today’s world

Today, the number of people who have changed religion is much higher than ever thought, like the story of Ingrid who shifted from Episcopalian church to be a Quaker after she was not able to get on board fully with some of the things in her former church (CNN).

Works Cited

Christianity Today. Jonathan Edwards and the Great Awakening: Did You Know? n.d. Web. 16 March 2017. .

CNN. “Americans Not Losing Their Religion, but Changing it Often.” 24 August 2009. CNN. Web. .

Edwards, Jonathan. The Advocacy for True Revival. n.d. Web. 16 March 2017. .