Jonathan Edwards
Because sermons are necessarily a reflection of the intimate thoughts of the preacher, Edwards is a prominent character in his own sermons. This is not to say that he talks about himself often, although he does devote the sermon "Personal Narrative" to his own verbal autobiography, but he does present his own theological and philosophical thoughts. Additionally, Edwards presents these ideas as instruction, often neglecting to include any sort of indication or caveat that they are his personal interpretation of Scripture and experience. In "Sinners in the Hand of an Angry God," his most famous text, Edwards explores mankind's relationship to God in his sovereignty in depth. He demonstrates his own retributive relationship to God by urging his congregation to focus upon the fear of God and their own powerlessness.
Mr. John Smith
In "Personal Narrative" Edwards explores how this man with whom he lodged for sometime influenced him. They were a deeply religious family, Smith and his mother. Smith himself was a man of the outdoors and often walked with Edwards and talked with him about God. They offered Edwards a proverbial safe haven in which he could further explore his theology and his relationship to community. Seemingly Smith was a bit of a recluse.
Rev. Eleazar Mather
This man was Edwards' grandfather. He was the third minister to be stationed in Edwards' town and welcomed in a season of religious revival. He was highly respected among the townspeople and held them similarly in great esteem. He died in 1671, after having served the town for two brief but impactful years following his ordination. This account is reported in "A Faithful Narrative of the Surprising Work of God."
