Submission to Divine Providence in the Death of Children Recommended and inforced, in a sermon preached at Northampton, on the death of a very amiable and hopeful child, about five years old Book Summary

Jonathan Edwards’ Submission to Divine Providence in the Death of Children is a deeply moving and theologically rich sermon delivered in 1736 following the death of a five-year-old child. It’s a challenging work, born from a specific historical and religious context, but one that grapples with universal questions of suffering, faith, and God’s sovereignty. Prepare for a perspective vastly different from modern grief counseling – this isn’t about *feeling* better, but about understanding God’s will and finding solace in His ultimate goodness.

This sermon isn't a sentimental eulogy. Instead, Edwards addresses the congregation – and, by extension, all believers – on how to respond to the death of children, a tragically common occurrence in the 18th century. He argues against excessive grief that questions God’s justice or goodness. The core of the sermon is a call to complete and unwavering submission to God’s providence, even – and especially – in the face of immense personal loss. He explores the idea that God has a right to do as He pleases with His creation, including taking the lives of the innocent, and that our duty is to accept this without complaint, recognizing His wisdom and holiness.

God's Sovereignty and Right to Dispose of His Creatures: Edwards relentlessly emphasizes God’s absolute control over all things, including life and death. He uses the analogy of a parent’s right to govern their child, arguing that God, as the ultimate parent, has the same – and infinitely greater – right over His creation. This isn’t presented as a cold or uncaring doctrine, but as a fundamental truth that underpins all of reality. He believes questioning this sovereignty is akin to rebelling against a just and loving Father. Imagine a skilled potter who has the right to shape the clay as they see fit, even to break it and remold it. The clay doesn't have the right to dictate its form; similarly, humans shouldn't dictate how God uses or disposes of their lives or the lives of their children.

The Danger of Selfish Love: A significant portion of the sermon warns against what Edwards calls “improper” affections. He argues that it’s sinful to love children (or anyone) more than we love God, or to desire their continued life for our own selfish reasons rather than for God’s glory. He doesn’t advocate for a lack of love, but for a *rightly ordered* love – one where God’s will is paramount. For example, if a parent is devastated by a child’s death to the point of losing faith, Edwards would see that as the parent’s love for the child eclipsing their love and trust in God. True love, he suggests, rejoices in God’s goodness even when it doesn’t align with our personal desires.

The Importance of Resignation and Acceptance: Edwards doesn’t suggest suppressing grief entirely, but he insists on a swift and complete resignation to God’s will. This means acknowledging His right to take life, accepting the loss without bitterness, and trusting in His ultimate plan. He uses the image of a broken vessel, still valuable to the owner even if it can no longer fulfill its original purpose. The child, though gone from this earth, is still in God’s loving hands. This acceptance isn’t passive; it’s an active affirmation of God’s goodness and wisdom.

The Potential for Spiritual Benefit Through Suffering: Edwards believes that even the most painful experiences can be used by God for our spiritual growth. The death of a child, while devastating, can serve as a powerful reminder of our own mortality and the fleeting nature of earthly life, prompting us to focus on eternal things. He suggests that such trials can deepen our faith, increase our humility, and draw us closer to God. Think of refining gold – the process is intensely hot and difficult, but it results in a purer, more valuable product. Similarly, suffering can refine our souls and bring us closer to God.

This book is best suited for readers who:

• Are interested in historical theology, particularly Puritan thought.
• Are comfortable with a distinctly biblical worldview and a high view of God’s sovereignty.
• Are willing to grapple with challenging questions about suffering and divine justice.
• Are seeking a perspective on grief that prioritizes faith and submission to God’s will.
• Are prepared for a style of writing that is dense, rhetorical, and characteristic of 18th-century sermons.

It may *not* be the best choice for those seeking modern, psychologically-focused grief counseling, or those who are skeptical of traditional religious doctrines.

Yes, despite being written centuries ago, the core questions Edwards addresses – the problem of evil, the nature of suffering, and the importance of faith – remain profoundly relevant today. While modern society often prioritizes emotional expression and individual autonomy, Edwards’ emphasis on God’s sovereignty and the need for submission can offer a different, and potentially comforting, framework for understanding loss. His challenge to examine the motives of our love and to prioritize God’s will is timeless. However, the starkness of his views might be difficult for some to process without further context.

Submission to Divine Providence in the Death of Children is a demanding but ultimately rewarding read. It’s a window into a different way of thinking about life, death, and faith, and it offers a powerful, if challenging, perspective on how to respond to suffering. While not for everyone, it remains a significant work of theological literature and a testament to the enduring power of faith in the face of tragedy.