The Salvation of Souls: Nine Previously Unpublished Sermons on the Call of Ministry and the Gospel by Jonathan Edwards

Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) was a pastor and theologian incolonial America who preached with zeal and theological insight,placing great emphasis on the impact that preaching could have onits listeners. Widely recognized as one of America's foremostthinkers, he is probably best known for his sermon "Sinners in theHands of an Angry God," which demonstrates his central concern forthe salvation of souls. Indeed, Edwards believed that all ministerswere on a "divine errand" to offer the Gospel to sinners.

Gregory Wills and Richard Bailey gathered nine sermons (all butone previously unpublished) that Edwards delivered, in which hecharges new ministers to exert a faithful ministry, delineates thetasks involved in preaching, and also challenges preachers anddeacons to take up the work to which the Lord calls them. GregoryWills and Richard Bailey establish the historical context forEdwards's own ministry and describe the setting in which hepreached each sermon. George Marsden, professor of history at NotreDame, has written a penetrating and helpful historical introductionto this important study of Jonathan Edwards.

Veteran pastors and new ordinands alike will be challenged toremain faithful in working for the salvation of the souls throughgospel preaching. These sermons define the nature and task of suchservice, both then and now. Pastors today will find Edwards's wordsto be a challenge to return to the basic call of saving sinners bypreaching the Word.