Nathaniel Emmons Quotes

A collection of quotes by Nathaniel Emmons.

Nathaniel Emmons (1745-1840) was an influential American theologian and Congregational minister. Born in Franklin, Massachusetts, Emmons graduated from Yale College in 1767. He initially worked as a tutor before becoming a pastor in Franklin, where he served the same church for an impressive 54 years until his retirement.

Emmons was known for his strong Calvinistic beliefs and is considered one of the leading figures of the New Divinity movement. He was a proponent of the "New England Theology," which emphasized the importance of religious experience and the inherent sinfulness of humanity. Emmons is best remembered for his preaching style, characterized by clarity, logical argumentation, and practical application.

Throughout his career, Emmons published numerous sermons and theological treatises, including his most well-known work, "System of Divinity," which provided a comprehensive overview of his theological views. He was deeply interested in the moral and social implications of religious doctrine and frequently addressed issues related to slavery, temperance, and education.

Emmons' theological contributions had a lasting impact on American religious thought and helped shape the development of the Congregational church. Despite the considerable influence he wielded during his lifetime, Emmons remains relatively understudied compared to other renowned theologians of his era.