Question

Which statement best explains why Edwards repeats the image of fire throughout "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God"?
He wants to remind the congregation that there is fire in hell.
He wants to increase his audience’s fear of hell.
He wants to make fire seem less unusual to the listener.
He wants to provide evidence that there is fire in hell

Answer 1

He wants to increase his audience’s fear of hell.

Edwards repeatedly uses fiery imagery to provoke strong emotional responses—terror and urgency—so listeners will repent. The repetition intensifies the threat rather than serving as neutral evidence or familiarization.