Misrepresentations Corrected and Truth Vindicated in Vol I of the Works - Edwards - VIII - Part III concluded

Required readingMisrepresentations Corrected and Truth Vindicated in Vol I of the Works by Jonathan Edwards (Available from Amazon or free here) - Conclude Part III.

My summary.

Today Edwards continues giving some last examples of Mr William's inconsistencies with himself  

Particularly Mr W.'s arguments that if it be not lawful for unconverted men to come to the Lord's supper:

(i) then none may come but they that know themselves to be converted;

(ii) it tends to the great perplexity and torment of many godly men in their attendance on this ordinance.;

(iii) is to suppose that God both commands them and forbids them at the same time.

Then we conclude by reading a letter of warning to Edward's old congregation in Northampton.  Edwards begs them to consider the consequences of embracing the teaching of Mr Williams, particularly that it will lead to a denial of vital doctrines concerning the unconverted.

What grabbed me

I enjoyed reading the letter in the Appendix, especially the evidence of Edwards pastoral concern for his old flock: 'By the way, I would have it observed, that when I take notice of these things in his book, my aim is not to beget in you an ill opinion of Mr. W. as though he were as corrupt in his settled persuasion, as one would be ready to think, if he were to judge only by things delivered in some parts of this book; and especially if it should be supposed, that he embraced all the consequences of what he here maintains. Men often do not see or allow the plain consequences of their own doctrines. And therefore, though I charge very pernicious consequences on some things he says, yet I do not charge him with embracing these consequences: nor will I undertake to explain how it could come to pass, that he should maintain things now in this book, in opposition to me, which are so contrary to the good and sound doctrines he has formerly delivered in other books. Let that be as it will, and however orthodox the principles may be, which he more ordinarily maintains; yet the ill and unsound things he delivers here, may do nevertheless hurt to you and your children, who may read this book without having in view the more wholesome doctrines of his other writings.'

Edwards still loved the sheep, despite the fact that they had bitten the hand that fed them.

Next week's reading

Read the General Introduction of 'A history of the work of redemption.'

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