Concerning Religious Affections

A landmark work of Puritan theology, this treatise investigates a vital question: how can genuine spiritual experience be distinguished from mere enthusiasm or self-deception? Writing amid the revivals of the Great Awakening, Edwards argues that true religion consists largely in holy affections — not empty emotions, but deep movements of the heart rooted in divine truth. He identifies twelve signs that neither confirm nor deny authentic faith, then presents twelve distinguishing marks of truly gracious affections. A penetrating guide to spiritual self-examination that remains deeply relevant today.