In
Holy Living
, author Matthew Everhard explores the “resolutions” Jonathan Edwards wrote when he was just nineteen years old, revealing how they are still beneficial to Christians today.
Though not yet ordained, Edwards (1703-1758) wrote these short but powerful aphorisms to guide his life, and now they offer spiritual guidance to a modern audience as well. Following a brief biography of Edwards, the book then looks at each resolution under three main categories: (1) existential (considering the purpose of life); (2) ethical (considering the duty and character of the Christian); and (3) eschatological (preparing for the brevity of life followed by death and eternity). Lay readers, pastors, students, church elders, and study group members will find troves of timeless wisdom and guidance for how to live the Christian life.
The book is divided into five sections:
An Introduction to the Life of Jonathan Edwards
The Meaning and Purpose of Life
How Should We Then Live?
The Brevity of Life and Eternal World to Come
Why Did Jonathan Edwards Stop Using the Resolutions?
It includes the following topics:
Edwards’s Youth and Conversion to Christ
The Early Pastoral Years
The Writing of the Resolutions
Faith and Assurance
Peace Relationships and Self-Control
The Brevity of Life
Heaven and Hell
Between Antinomianism and Legalism
Reflections of a More Mature Saint
Resolutions and the Gospel of Grace