THE WORKS OF JONATHAN EDWARDS: On the Equality of the Persons of the Trinity – Volume 21

ON THE EQUALITY OF THE PERSONS OF THE TRINITY

In this short, untitled fragment that was originally written on a salvaged letter cover, Edwards demonstrates how “the personal glory of each of the persons of the Trinity is equal, though each one, as they have a distinct personality, have a distinct glory.”

Edwards argues that the divine essence of the Trinity is undivided and independent in two senses:

1. “With respect to its being, but not with respect to its relative being … that the divine essence should be what it is, is not in any respect in any dependence or by derivation.”

2. “The divine essence is independent and underived in another respect, i.e. it is not dependent on any arbitrament or voluntary communication.”

In typical Edwardsean fashion, he is delving deeply into the mystery of the Trinity.  He reiterates the importance of understanding the three person distinction and the equality among the members of the godhead.