E.M. Bounds on Prayer

E.M. Bounds on Prayer

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The Complete Works of E. M. Bounds on Prayeris a collection of writings by Edward McKendree Bounds (1835–1913), an American Methodist minister best known for his teaching on prayer.

What the book is about

Bounds argues that prayer is central to Christian life and ministry, not merely a religious duty. His writing is devotional, exhortational, and intensely focused on developing a deeper, more disciplined prayer life.

Some of his recurring themes are:

• Prayer and communion with God — Bounds presents prayer as personal fellowship with God rather than simply asking for things.

• Persistence — He repeatedly emphasizes praying consistently and refusing to give up when answers are not immediate.

• Faith — Effective prayer, in his view, requires genuine trust in God rather than merely repeating words.

• The character of the person praying — Bounds stresses holiness, humility, obedience, sincerity, and spiritual discipline.

• Prayer and Christian ministry — A major emphasis is that ministers and churches need prayer if their work is to have genuine spiritual power.

• The Holy Spirit — Bounds connects effective prayer with dependence upon the Spirit rather than human ability alone.

• Intercessory prayer — He gives considerable attention to praying for other people and for the work of the church.

• Private prayer — Bounds particularly values the hidden, solitary prayer life that others may never see.

His central message

One way to summarize Bounds's message is:

Spiritual effectiveness begins with a serious life of prayer.