The two videos below provide a sampling of Edward’s book. The first is the author’s preface which explains his purpose in writing; the second is a 30 minute reading of part one of the book. The book is divided into 3 parts, as follows (subheadings not listed; emboldening mine):
Part 1: The nature of the affections and their importance in religion
Part 2: Showing what are no certain signs that religious affections are truly gracious, or that they are not
Part 3: Showing what are distinguishing signs of truly gracious and holy affections
The first video may sound like it would be a bore, yet, it will enable listeners to see the importance and value of being able to discern the nature of their own religious affections.
For anyone who is considering purchasing the book, I highly recommend spending 19 minutes to hear his rationale for writing the book.
The second video, 32 minutes, provides an example of his minute considerations in this project. He is certainly a philosopher, as you will find when you listen.
I first attempted to read this book when I was in cancer treatment, taking medications that caused cloudy thinking, so I found the book quite difficult to read, such so that I bought the Audible version and followed along in the book as I listened.
After a listen through the book, I began to see that he stated a doctrine, then presented many considerations thereafter about that point. He did that for each point. Once I saw how he organized the book, I had much less difficulty reading or listening with understanding.
This book is worth the effort if you want to be able to recognize counterfeit and true religious affections in your walk with the Lord.
The initial reading of Part One:
During the next few days, I plan to provide video overviews of the 12 signs of counterfeit affections discussed in part 2 of Edwards book; and signs of true affections for those who do not wish to buy the book but have an interest in knowing more.
The video overviews range in length of 4 – 7 minutes.
The book costs about $15 on Amazon; the Audible version is around $25; kindle, $0.99.