Podcast Summary

Episode Overview

Title: Edwards’ First Published Sermon
Host: Stephen Nichols (Ligonier Ministries)
Date: July 16, 2025
Theme: This episode delves into the historical and theological significance of Jonathan Edwards’ first published sermon, “God Glorified in the Work of Redemption,” delivered in 1731. Host Stephen Nichols explores the unique circumstances of its publication, the core message of the sermon, and the enduring importance of Edwards’ thought.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Historical Context of the Sermon

• Jonathan Edwards preached his first published sermon on July 8, 1731, at the age of 27.
• The sermon was published just over a month later, on August 17, 1731, in Boston.
• The publication was unusual for someone so young, as it was more customary to publish sermons near the end of a minister’s career to honor their legacy.

2. Role of Thomas Prince and William Cooper

• Thomas Prince (1687–1758) and William Cooper (1694–1743)—respected Boston ministers—were instrumental in publishing Edwards’ sermon.
• They wrote a preface (referred to as an “advertisement”) highlighting both Edwards’ youth and humility:
  • Quote [01:10]:

    "It was with no small difficulty that the author's youth and modesty were prevailed on to let him appear a preacher in our public lecture and afterwards to give us a copy of his discourse at the desire of diverse ministers and others who heard it."

3. Significance of the Boston Lecture Series

• Public lectures were significant events in Puritan New England, held occasionally on Thursdays and attended by ministers from across Massachusetts and Connecticut.
• Being chosen to preach—and have the sermon published—was a mark of distinction.

4. The Sermon’s Message & Biblical Text

• The sermon is titled “God Glorified in the Work of Redemption.”
• Edwards’ main text: 1 Corinthians 1:29–31
  • “That no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: that, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.”
• Edwards’ doctrine:
  • Quote [03:13]:

    “God is glorified in the work of redemption in this, that there appears in it so absolute and universal a dependence of the redeemed on him.”

• The central insight is total reliance on God for salvation:
  • The redeemed “have all of their good of God, and through God, but all of our good consists in him.”
  • Paraphrase [03:33]:
    “The redeemed have all their good in God. He is all our good.”

5. Enduring Relevance

• Nichols recommends the sermon as excellent summer reading, highlighting its deep theology and accessibility.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Edwards’ Reluctance Yet Impactful Role [01:10]:
  “It was with no small difficulty that the author's youth and modesty were prevailed on to let him appear a preacher in our public lecture...”
  (Attributed to Prince & Cooper, cited by Stephen Nichols)

• On the Essence of the Sermon [03:13]:
  “God is glorified in the work of redemption in this, that there appears in it so absolute and universal a dependence of the redeemed on him.”
  (Jonathan Edwards, as summarized by Nichols)

• On Our Reliance on God [03:33]:
  “The redeemed have all their good in God. He is all our good.”
  (Jonathan Edwards, as paraphrased by Nichols)

Important Timestamps

• 00:06–01:20 — Introduction, historical setup, involvement of Prince and Cooper
• 01:20–02:30 — Explanation of the unusual circumstances around the sermon’s publication and the Boston lecture tradition
• 02:30–03:13 — Title and theological focus of the sermon
• 03:13–03:33 — Edwards’ doctrine and scriptural basis
• 03:33–04:28 — Explanation of complete dependence on God and recommendation to read the sermon

Conclusion

Stephen Nichols provides a concise yet rich exploration of Jonathan Edwards’ first published sermon, placing it in historical context and drawing out Edwards’ central theme: the utter dependence of redeemed people on God for all good and for salvation itself. Nichols underscores the humility of the young Edwards and the bold, theologically weighty message that even in youth, a minister could set before both his contemporaries and future generations. The episode closes with an encouragement to read the sermon today, reflecting on its timeless message.