“That Which They Can’t See:” A Retrieval of Jonathan Edwards’ Homiletical Use of Imagination

Van Brugge, David Peter (2023) “That Which They Can’t See:” A Retrieval of Jonathan Edwards’ Homiletical Use of Imagination. Doctoral thesis.

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Item Type: Thesis (Doctoral thesis)
Titel: “That Which They Can’t See:” A Retrieval of Jonathan Edwards’ Homiletical Use of Imagination
Samenvatting (EN): This retrieval study addresses how the current understanding of a homiletical use of imagination for expository preaching might be strengthened. The current need for strengthening becomes apparent when the various understandings of imagination and their implications for practical theology are realized. This is compounded as trends in homiletics seem to minimize the imagination or embrace it in modern or postmodern ways. The original contribution of this study is recognizing that the homiletical use of imagination can be strengthened by retrieving the Puritan baroque characteristics of Jonathan Edwards imagination as evidenced in his sermons to the Stockbridge Indians of 1751-1758. Edwards drew on a rich background to display an imagination that synthesized thoughts and ideas, thought beyond the senses, and that, by the grace of God, transformed thought and practice. Throughout that imaginative thought, Edwards maintained Biblical exposition and appeal to the affections. This study further develops and evaluates the idea of Puritan baroque characteristics, concluding that it is a helpful characterization of Edwards’ Stockbridge Indian sermons. In these sermons Edwards imaginatively used imagery, light, space, movement, and glorification for the ultimate goal of directing the affections of his audience towards God. Such a use of imagination for affective purpose becomes a key for the strengthening of a homiletical use of imagination, particularly as it speaks to the balance of reason and experience.
Number of Pages: 398
Theologische Universiteit: Theologische Universiteit Apeldoorn
Trefwoorden (NL): Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) ; Preken
Trefwoorden (EN): Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) ; Sermons
Date Deposited: 20 Jun 2023 08:22
Last Modified: 20 Jun 2023 08:22

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