Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) was a leading pastor, theologian, and revival preacher of colonial America whose life helped shape the First Great Awakening. Born in East Windsor, Connecticut, he showed an early gift for learning and graduated from Yale at a young age. He later served for many years as the minister in Northampton, Massachusetts, where his preaching emphasized God’s holiness, the seriousness of sin, and the necessity of a personal, transforming faith in Jesus Christ.

Edwards became widely known for his powerful sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God”, preached during the height of revival. He wrote thoughtful works on spiritual experience, religious affections, and the nature of true conversion, seeking to unite earnest devotion with careful theological reflection.

After leaving Northampton, Edwards later became president of now Princeton University. He died shortly after assuming the role, but his preaching, writings, and example have continued to influence Christian faith and ministry for generations.