Religious Affections

Sunday, February 3rd • 9:00 AM

Religious Affections by Jonathan Edwards

Cascades Bible Church currently has a unique equipping opportunity for its members, regular attendees and the general public. Beginning on February 5th, 2011, and meeting on the first Sunday of every month, we are offering an in-depth study on the Christian faith and life that flows from the writings of Jonathan Edwards.

Who is Jonathan Edwards?

Jonathan Edwards was a pastor, preacher and brilliant theologian from the 18th century. Living in New England, he se

rved as a pastor of a local church in North Hampton and also later served as the president of Princeton Seminary.

What was the “Great Awakening?”

The Great Awakening was a period (1740-1742) of great spiritual revival amongst the American colonies. The Scripture, preaching, the gospel and signs of true repentance were common topics among men throughout the land. During this awakeni

ng many were converted and professed faith in Christ.

Why did Jonathan Edwards write Religious Affections, the essays that are the topic of this class?

During the Great Awakening there was also much spiritual confusion. Mixed with true conversions and biblical ministry were emotional excesses, lack of order in worship services, zealous but contentious preachers, claims of direct revelation from God and ostentatious displays of boldness and spirituality.

Therefore, Edwards sought to objectively evaluate or appraise the Great Awakening to support that which was good and biblical and to expose and reject that which was bad and in spiritual error.

In Religious Affections, Edwards goes into much depth to expose the evil aspects of the Awakening and to affirm the true and biblical religious affections that accompany true saving faith.

What is the goal of this study?

By studying Edwards writings in Religious Affections we hope to educate and affirm in our own understanding what are the true signs of God’s work in the affections of a true believer.

Our Teacher:

Dr.Craig Biehl introduces the class as follows:

The problems and blessings of the greatest awakening in American history will be the context for our study of The Religious Affections. Considered by many the greatest work on the nature of the new birth and true Christianity ever written, Edwards’ work is a delightful feast for the soul, more than worth the effort required to plumb its depths.

Craig holds degrees from Westminster Theological Seminary (Ph.D.), UCLA (M.B.A.), Dallas Theological Seminary (Th.M.), and UC Berkeley (BA).