Title: The Life of Rev. David Brainerd, Chiefly Extracted from His Diary
Author: David Brainerd, edited by Jonathan Edwards
Genre: Biography, Religious/Spiritual
Themes: Missionary work, Christian piety, Spiritual struggle, Native American history
Publication Date: First published in 1749
Blurb:
“The Life of Rev. David Brainerd, Chiefly Extracted from His Diary” offers a profound look into the life and ministry of David Brainerd, an 18th-century missionary to Native American tribes in the American colonies. Edited by the prominent theologian Jonathan Edwards, this work is drawn extensively from Brainerd’s personal diary, detailing his deep spiritual journey, his commitment to his missionary calling, and the physical and emotional challenges he faced. Brainerd’s life is depicted as a model of Christian dedication and sacrifice, providing inspiration and insight into the nature of true piety and the trials of missionary life.
Summary:
David Brainerd, born in 1718 in Haddam, Connecticut, faced many personal hardships, including the early loss of his parents and his own struggles with melancholy and illness. After being expelled from Yale College due to his involvement with the New Light movement, he became an itinerant preacher and later a missionary to the Native Americans. His work primarily focused on the Delaware Indians in New Jersey, where he achieved notable success despite his ongoing battle with tuberculosis. Brainerd’s diary entries reveal his intense spiritual fervor, his moments of despair, and his unwavering dedication to his faith and mission. He continued his work until his health deteriorated, leading to his death at the young age of 29 in the home of Jonathan Edwards.
Reception:
This biography has been highly regarded in Christian circles for its portrayal of devout faith and perseverance. It has inspired many subsequent missionaries and religious leaders, and Jonathan Edwards’ editorial work helped cement its place as a significant religious text.
Why Recommended:
This book is recommended for those interested in the history of Christian missions, spiritual autobiographies, and the personal struggles and triumphs of religious figures. Brainerd’s life, as depicted through his own words and the editorial lens of Jonathan Edwards, provides a moving and instructive example of living a life of faith in the face of adversity.
