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Analysis Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God

In: English and Literature

Submitted By princeace
Words 529
Pages 3
Akil Hodge
9-17-10
2nd / U.S. Lit.
Analysis: Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God

The Great Awakening was a religious movement that shocked the world and brought unbelieving people into the life of a Christian. Jonathan Edwards was a powerful, influential figure in this movement and was known for his visual sermons. His method of preaching was using fear to frighten people to convert. One of his most powerful sermons, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God”, used many rhetorical strategies to persuade his unsaved audience to become saved to avoid the torment of hell.

One productive approach that was substantial in scaring the unsaved people in the audience is through the use of imagery. Imagery is the usage of words to make an image in the mind of the listener(s); with which Edwards uses adequately to defend his reason. In his case, he utilizes this technique to penetrate the hearts and minds to everyone present. This strategy terrifies his listeners into following his directions and method of redemption. “There are black clouds of God’s wrath now hanging directly over your heads” is an excellent example of imagery because it displays an image of hater from God.

Metaphors are applied often in this distinctive speech about God and his anger. This figure of speech spans over the whole account through all paragraphs and is a very unique way of influence. I feel that “The bow of God’s wrath is dent” presents the meaning of the word metaphor, which is the using of words to designate another. Since this strategy is used repetitively, this sermon has served its purpose.

When Edwards wrote this lecture to preach to the congregation of his church, his emphasis was to use fear and anger to convince the unsaved group to think about what they had done in their lifetime to deserve this treatment, and why they must become a Christian. I feel his plan on doing

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