Impulses
Here's another quote from Murray's Biography on Jonathan Edwards, from JE himself, referencing the tendancy of some spiritual leaders to conduct their ministry based on impressions, impulses, or what they perceived God was wanting them to do in a particular moment. Causes me to think very seriously about how I, or anyone I'm around, talk about why I do or say something...
"One erroneous principle, than which scarce any has proved more mischievous to the present glorious work of God, is the notion that it is God's manner in these days (I would add any days) to guide his saints, at least some that are more eminent (leaders), by inspiration, or immediate revelation...
This error will defend and support (other) errors. As long as a person has a notion that he is guided by immediate direction from heaven, it makes him incorrigible and impregnable in all his misconduct..." 3
My additions in un-italic parentheses.
"One erroneous principle, than which scarce any has proved more mischievous to the present glorious work of God, is the notion that it is God's manner in these days (I would add any days) to guide his saints, at least some that are more eminent (leaders), by inspiration, or immediate revelation...
This error will defend and support (other) errors. As long as a person has a notion that he is guided by immediate direction from heaven, it makes him incorrigible and impregnable in all his misconduct..." 3
My additions in un-italic parentheses.
posted by Jeffrey A. Norris at
5:01 AM
3 Comments:
Interestingly enough, Jonathan Edwards cautioned the famous George Whitefield about "impulses" when he came to Northhampton. Whitefield was quite charismatic for his day, and Edwards warned him concerning an attitude of superiority over less "inspired" ministers.
I'm not sure if that's the same context that you read this quote in or not, but it's interesting that you should bring it up. Thanks for sharing.
Indeed, that is within the context, along with other, more extreme examples. JE may have influenced GW a little, as Whitefield later wrote in a sermon, "Try the suggestions or impressions that you may at anytime feel, by the unerring rule of God's most Holy Word. And if they are not found to be agreeable to that, reject them as diabolical and delusive!" 1746
It is also an example for all of us to read that JE and GW were knit together in an endearing friendship.
Actually, although the context is within excesses that you mention, I also would suggest this quote by JE speaks to the "opinions" and actions of some leaders which they elevate to unimpeachable heights by saying, "God has laid this on my heart..." Anyone who might opine against them are dismissed.
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