Jonathan Edwards’s Vision of Reality

"There are a number of studies on the theocentric metaphysics of the Puritan divine Jonathan Edwards. This work distinguishes itself by its careful attention to detail, its comprehensive scope, and its sympathetic interaction with much of the recent Edwards scholarship. Bombaro presents his readers with a picture of the Sage of Northampton's theology, which emphasizes the glorification of God in the creation--and even in the reprobation--of human beings. This will be welcomed by scholars and readers of Edwards as a helpful addition to the expanding literature on the subject."

--Oliver Crisp

Professor of Systematic Theology

Fuller Theological Seminary



"A bold and carefully crafted challenge to current interpretations of Edwards, this work seeks a synthesis of those who insist that Edwards was an orthodox thinker and those who portray him as a modern one. Beginning with Edwards' theocentricity, with its vision of the unity of all in and for God, it grapples with what is for modern minds the more distasteful aspects of his theology--his adherence to the teachings of reprobation and the eternal destruction of the damned."

--Kenneth P. Minkema

Executive Editor and Director

The Jonathan Edwards Center, Yale University



"Jonathan Edwards worked out a vivid personal view of the relations of God and humanity. In this rigorous engagement with Edwards's philosophical theology, John Bombaro shows that the theologian's vision was the fruit of his conversion and found a place even for reprobates in the glorification of their Creator."

--David Bebbington

Professor of History

University of Stirling



"John Bombaro's book on Edwards is most welcome. It shows in clear, well-argued prose with considerable learning that Edwards's theology is definite and clear and not a nose of wax, a plaything for the theologians. Indeed, as he shows, Edwards's Calvinism has some extreme elements to it. The publication of this book should curb excessive and speculative interpretations of his theology."

--Paul Helm

Teaching Fellow

Regent College, Vancouver