“Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” is a sermon written by American Christian theologian/pastor Jonathan Edwards, preached to his own congregation in Northampton, Massachusetts to little effect, and again on July 8, 1741 in Enfield, Connecticut. It is Edwards’ most famous written work, is a fitting representation of his preaching style, and is widely studied by Christians and historians, providing a glimpse into the theology of the Great Awakening of c. 1730–1755.
This is a typical sermon of the Great Awakening, emphasizing the belief that Hell is a real place. Edwards hoped that the imagery and message of his sermon would awaken his audience to the horrific reality that awaited them should they continue without Christ. The underlying point is that God has given the unregenerate a day, by His sovereign grace, in which to repent of their sins. Edwards says that it is the restraining will of God that keeps wicked men from entering the depths of Hell at any moment. This act of divine restraint has given sinners an opportunity to turn from their wicked ways and come to Christ Jesus the Lord alone for salvation (Ephesians 2:1-9; Titus 3:4-7; 1 Corinthians 15:1-23).
