It may seem a bit obvious, but one way to describe God in Edwards's sermon is "angry." Edwards was preaching to a congregation who he considered insufficiently committed to their faith, and this sermon was intended to promote a new sense of diligence and piety in the community. To do so, Edwards portrays God as angry and wrathful toward sinners.
God is a great deal more angry with great numbers that are now on earth, yea, doubtless with many that are now in this congregation, that it may be are at ease and quiet, than he is with many of those that are now in the flames of hell.
These were strong words for those who felt comfortable, even lax in their faith. Edwards further emphasized that God was all-powerful and capable of casting any of them into hell. The only thing keeping anyone out of hell is the "mere arbitrary will, and uncovenanted unobliged forbearance of an incensed God." Edwards claims people are suspended above hell like a "loathsome insect," and God holds them in his hand only out of mercy. Edwards used such words as "loathe" and "fury" to describe God's view of man. He urged his people to accept the opportunity presented by accepting divine mercy, an
extraordinary opportunity, a day wherein Christ has flung the door of mercy wide open, and stands in the door calling and crying with a loud voice to poor sinners.
Edwards contends the Christian faith is the only buffer between human beings and a wrathful and angry God.
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