Description
English Puritanism and Scottish Presbyterianism in the 17th century had many bright and shining lights. Of these, James Durham (1622–1658), ranks alongside the greatest for his theological depth, faithful preaching, and particularly for his moderate spirit at a time of great controversy. “No Scotchman of that age was more profoundly venerated” (Walker). Dur-ham, whose father and grandfather served the king as Clerk of Exchequer, was seemingly destined to the life of a Scottish laird, yet through several remarkable providence's he came to study for the ministry under David Dickson, and did so well that it is said he could have served as a professor of divinity in any university. Yet, Durham’s brief ministry was spent preaching for the most part in the Inner-Kirk of Glasgow Cathedral. He came to excel in ‘case divinity’ or ‘cases of conscience,’ and it was thought that he poured so much of himself into his preparations that it brought about his early death.
Collected Sermons of James Durham: Christ Cruci
fied: or, The Marrow of the Gospel in 72 Sermons on Isaiah 53. Last published in 1799 and first republished in 2001 by Naphtali Press, this new critical edition has been collated anew against the earliest editions, and the text significantly corrected and augmented with editorial notes. Spurgeon says of these sermons “This is marrow indeed. We need say no more: Durham is a prince among spiritual expositor's,” and inscribed his personal copy with “much prized.” The same can be said of all Durham’s sermons.