Sinners In The Hands Of An Angry God Analysis

Jonathan Edwards Discussion Jonathan Edwards’ “Sinners in the hands of an Angry God” approaches the audience with a call to action. Jonathan does not soften his blows of aggression towards those listening to his sermon. Edwards’ use of imagery and syntax add to the emotional effect of the sermon. “The bow of God’s wrath is bent, and the arrow made ready on the string.” This metaphor is directed to those that sin, and is used as a more blunt approach to those who do bad, than Plato’s “Allegory of the Cave”. Plato approaches the topic of ignorance with ease and softness, using an epic metaphor to compare humans finding self-knowledge to those in a cave. Edwards uses many similes as well, but with a more aggressive impact. “And the fiery
floods of the fierceness and the wrath of God, would rush forth with inconceivable fury.” The alliteration in Edwards’ “Sinners” is an example of pathos. Edwards’ sermon slams waves and waves of emotions on the readers, much unlike other writers. Many writers, writing from a persuasive point of view, approach the topic they are discussing, from a more informative and factual approach. This is obviously difficult for Edwards being that he is preaching loudly for religion, a difficult topic to find factual evidence for. “But alas! Instead of one, how many is it likely will remember this discourse in Hell?” Jonathan throws a rhetorical question to the audience in hopes that they will change their ways and preach to God once more of forgiveness for their sins.