Death Quote by Jonathan Edwards
““we, doubtless, should hear one and another reply, “No, I never intended to come here: I had laid out matters otherwise in my mind; I thought I should contrive well for myself: I thought my scheme good: I intended to take effectual care; but it came upon me unexpected; I did not look for it at that time, and in that manner; it came as a thief: death outwitted me: God’s wrath was too quick for me. O my cursed foolishness! I was flattering myself, and pleasing myself with vain dreams of what I would do hereafter; and when I was saying peace and safety, then sudden destruction came upon me.” 10.””
About This Quote
Source Sermon: “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God”, 1741
The speaker describes how unexpected death and divine judgment can strike suddenly, exposing human folly and self‑deception.
In simple terms: Unexpected death shows our foolish self‑confidence.
Key Takeaway
Recognize mortality and humility.
Themes
mortality
divine judgment
human folly
humility
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
theological
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- preaching
- personal reflection
- spiritual counseling
- life planning
Key Concepts
theodicy
existential awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you confront unexpected crises?
- What does humility look like in daily life?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor of death as a thief may oversimplify complex causes of suffering.
![“But it is doubtless true, and evident from [the] Scriptures, that the essence of all true religion lies in holy love; and that in this divine affection, and an habitual disposition to it, and that light which is the foundation of it, and those things which are the fruits of it, consists the whole…” quote by Jonathan Edwards](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2fd/jonathan-edwards-770_affection_but-it-is-doubtless-true-and-evident-fro_82879.jpg)
