A Model of Christian Charity and Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God

In comparing “A Model of Christian Charity” by John Winthrop and "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" by Johnathan Edwards, there are similarities and differences. Edward's  "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" shows sinners that the things they do are wrong and they needed to go back to God. In the "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," the word choices are a harsh format that would make people come to Christ because Jonathan scares them into Religion; He also felt that the society, including many other members of the congregation, were more sinful now than they ever for but even though it was a bit harsh in what he said to the people thinking bad things will happen if they do not worship with God. However, he meant it for a good cause and encouraging because he believed everybody should go to heaven. 

Jonathan Edward's writing a lot of dark words in his writing to instill fear and power as opposed to Winthrop whose seems lighthearted and hopeful. While Winthrop writes “We must love brotherly without dissimulation...” (102). Edwards talks about the power of God through punishment and fear. But Winthrop talks about the power of God through love and cohesiveness. Winthrop also explains God as merciful instead Edwards shows God has no mercy or forgiveness. Both puritan leaders use two completely different approaches to speak to the congregation. Finally, Winthrop's content is more about how people should live their daily lives and the values they share. Edwards talks more about the punishments for not living a puritan lifestyle. 

Another is that Winthrop stated that "He wished to reform the Church of England from within, rather than breaking with it and starting fresh ”(92). The Puritans valued God's authority, love, believed in original sin and saw their religious values as being above all other things. In his writing, “A Model of Christian Charity,” Winthrop talks about the things that the Puritans valued, and highlights four main ideas (101). The four ideas are: first the person, meaning that all of the people are bound together by love; second, the work, here the civic and the religious areas of life are of importance; third the end, meaning to improve their lives in service to God; and fourth the means, or how the end is achieved (102). Finally, Winthrop talks about the idea that as a group, they must all be in it together, as if they are one person, doing justice, being merciful and patient, and having brotherly affection for one another (103). Edwards also says “There is nothing that keeps wicked men at any one moment out of hell, but the mere pleasure of God” (93).