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John Piper Book Reviews

The Religious Affections

Jonathan Edwards
Banner of Truth
First published 1746, 1994 reprint

This book was written whilst great revival was sweeping through New England in the 18^th Century. Edwards’ purpose in writing was to distinguish the authentic marks of the work of the Spirit of God on a person. The tightly packed chapters demonstrate Edwards’ conviction that the results of the Spirit’s work are seen in the heightening of the religious affections in their godward focus.

The book is divided into three parts:

1) Concerning the nature of the affections and their importance in religion;

2) Showing what are no certain signs that religious affections are truly gracious or that they are not;

3) Showing what are distinguishing signs of truly gracious and holy affections

Edwards’ book is a penetrating analysis of the excesses of religious revival. The book has sometimes been misused or misunderstood. The central point is that the distinguishing marks of the work of the Spirit are seen in the affectionate responses towards God, not in the phenomena themselves. Written in characteristic Puritan style, the long sentences and compact arguments make it hard to read. But persistence pays!

Application

This book has helped me understand Piper better and enabled me to see the man behind the man!

Best Quote

"If we ought ever to exercise our affections at all, then they ought to be exercised about those objects which are most worthy of them." (p.53).