Serious Joy: Reflections and Devotions on Jonathan Edwards' Seventy Resolutions

by Joey Tomlinson

“In Serious Joy, Joey Tomlinson introduces readers to the seventy Resolutions Jonathan Edwards wrote when he was only nineteen years old, showing how they are directly relevant and needful for Christians today.Each resolution is expounded on by Tomlinson in a way that helps the reader establish a regular rhythm of private worship by pointing them to the Scriptures that underpin each resolution. Furthermore, Tomlinson harmonizes the resolutions with other writings of Edwards that bring them into better focus. The goal of this approach is to exalt Christ, foster meditation and prayer, and demonstrate how serious joy in Christ leads to growth in Christlikeness. All of this is accomplished by tethering the reader to the theology of Jonathan Edwards. In so doing, Tomlinson succeeds in bringing a fresh approach to the writings of Edwards by making them more approachable for the Christian who wants to understand the significance and importance of Edwards’ contribution to Christian theology."

210 pages, Paperback

Published September 13, 2023

Reviews

[Kacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this read about Jonathan Edwards’ 70 resolutions. Tomlinson’s commentary was helpful and thought provoking. This will be one I revisit… or may even suggest for a group study.

[Kristen Rosener · Rating 5 out of 5]

Undoubtedly one of the best books I have ever read. I loved how Tomlinson shared other writings from Jonathan Edwards that helped give a clearer understanding of his seventy resolutions. If you want to grow in the disciplines of grace, in repentance, and in greater love for Christ and the church, this book is an excellent resource.

[Ray Cason · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book! He takes Edwards’ resolutions and expounds on them in a way that causes true introspection. This book is food for the soul.

[oinkyreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was a helpful resource throughout the year to take notice of areas in my life that needed the same kind of work Jonathan Edwards was pressing on. I like the conciseness of each chapter categorized by each theme. This moral spiritual giant has feared God and held his ways to be kept pure and pleasing to God, knowing full well that [Holy=Happy] was his joy in the Lord. It's somewhat comforting and challenging to know J.E. also had gone through the "lacking" and fought the good fight against these spiritual battles. Even to the last conclusion page, it was an encouragement and a challenge for me to fear God and to keep on battling against sin and flesh until the end by God's grace, through the Spirit's help, and in the finished work of Jesus Christ! Would love to revisit for reminders continually.

[Michael · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Decent meditation on Edward's resolutions.

[Jared Storey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed reading through Joel’s reflections on Edward’s resolutions. Joel does a great job of expounding on the Edwards ambitions, making them applicable for everyday life 300 years on from them first being penned.

Edward’s resolutions have inspired me and spurred me on to pursue godliness in all areas of life.

I was most impacted by resolution 7, in which Edwards resolved ‘never to do anything he would be afraid to do if it were the last hour of his life’.