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Interpreters of Edwards have often focused on either his philosophy or theology as the central theme to understanding his thought. In An Absolute Sort of Certainty, Nichols navigates a third way around these polarizing modes of interpretation, finding Edwards's apologetics as the key to holding together both strands of his thought, while accounting for their different emphases. Apologetics occupies a mediating role, holistically utilizing theology and philosophy alike. As Nichols turns discussion of Edwards in the direction of apologetics, his investigation explores its relation to biblical doctrines through a pneumatological lens. Thus, Nichols treats the apologetical themes of epistemology, perception, assurance, verification, and persuasion in light of the central and essential role of the Holy Spirit. The discussion concludes with an examination of two unpublished sermons, which display Edwards's use of the homiletical tool in his apologetics.
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