Memoirs of Jonathan Edwards in Vol I of the Works - XVII - Chapter 17

Required reading
Memoirs of Jonathan Edwards in Volume I of the Works by Jonathan Edwards (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read Chapter 17.

My summary.

Today we hear more details regarding Edwards' finish at Northampton.

We learn about his farewell sermon and details of the votes that went against him.  

There are comments about his response to the issue as well as the uncertainty about his future.

Also, in the letters written by Edwards, he makes comments on other denominations including about:

(i) the Moravians;

(ii) the Seceders;

(iii) the Wesleys;

(iv) the Church of England;

(v) the Arminians.

What grabbed me

A sad reading today.  

I really felt sorry for the poor man when I read these words: 'But I am now, as it were, thrown upon the wide ocean of the world, and know not what will become of me, and my numerous and chargeable family. Nor have I any particular door in view that I depend upon to be opened for my future serviceableness. Most places in New England that want a minister, would not be forward to invite one with so chargeable a family, nor one so far advanced in years—being 46 the 5th day of cxxi last October. I am fitted for no other business but study. I should make a poor hand at getting a living by any secular employment. We are in the hands of God, and I bless him, I am not anxious concerning his disposal of us. I hope I shall not distrust him, nor be unwilling to submit to his will. And I have cause of thankfulness, that there seems also to be such a disposition in my family.'

In the midst of much uncertainty, Edwards is still certain about his God!

Next week's reading
Read Chapter 18.

Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.