
James Bourne
- Sermons
- Bio
Free Grace Salvation
0PSA 51:5ISA 48:8MAL 4:2MAT 6:24JHN 6:37JHN 15:18ROM 8:322CO 4:2GAL 1:3EPH 2:5TIT 3:51JN 4:13James Bourne preaches about the profound message of salvation by grace, emphasizing the hopelessness of sinners under conviction and the necessity of understanding God's mercy and pardon through Jesus Christ. He warns against false teachings that lead to despair and highlights the importance of recognizing the free grace of Christ as the only means of salvation. Bourne encourages believers to stand firm in the face of temptation, keeping their focus on the love and grace of Christ that brings unspeakable power and raises spirits from despair to heavenly hope.
Receiving and Walking
0PSA 62:5PSA 73:26PSA 84:2ISA 40:31LAM 3:26JHN 6:35GAL 2:16GAL 6:9COL 2:6TIT 3:5James Bourne preaches on the importance of walking with Christ as we first received Him, emphasizing the need to maintain a fervent spirit and constant communion with Jesus. He warns against losing our first love and becoming indifferent towards Christ and His teachings, urging believers to guard against spiritual decay and seek to keep their conscience blameless. Bourne encourages the congregation to hold fast to the truths of God, maintain a strong faith, and diligently use the means appointed by God for spiritual nourishment and growth.
Spiritual Liberty
0PSA 126:1PSA 126:5PSA 145:1PSA 145:8PHP 1:6James Bourne preaches on the turning of captivity in Psalms 126:1, emphasizing the softening of the heart towards the Lord and the discovery of the evil within us, leading to self-abasement and spiritual transformation. The sermon highlights the joy and singing that come from God turning our captivity, leading others to acknowledge the great works He has done. It delves into sowing in tears, the comfort of the Holy Spirit, and the assurance that God will bring His work in us to completion. The sermon concludes with a call to praise the Lord, recognizing His greatness, mercy, and compassion.
Watchmen Upon the Walls
0PSA 40:1PSA 106:4ISA 40:11MAL 3:2JHN 15:16ACT 4:111CO 3:11EPH 6:10TIT 3:51PE 2:6James Bourne preaches about the importance of faithful watchmen in guarding God's people and promoting their welfare through unceasing prayers and a faithful ministry. The prophet Isaiah emphasizes God's peculiar care over His afflicted people, assuring them of His delight in those who hope in His mercy and the everlasting name He bestows upon them. The chapter highlights the need for a tender union with Christ and preserving the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ, the chief cornerstone. The faithful watchmen are called to proclaim the happy truths of salvation to a poor and afflicted people, assuring them of God's everlasting love and care.
Where Men Will Not Regard a Faithful Ministry
0PSA 118:6ISA 54:17ROM 8:311CO 1:182CO 12:9EPH 4:15PHP 1:6James Bourne emphasizes that when people do not value a faithful ministry, it indicates the absence of the Lord's presence, regardless of their outward behavior. He highlights the importance of maintaining a close bond with one another and with Christ as the Head of the Church. Bourne teaches that if God chooses to bless and prosper His work in a particular place, He will ensure its continuation despite any opposition. Those who oppose God's work will face utter confusion and defeat, as God will bring His plans to completion (Philippians 1:6).
Letter 1
0PSA 34:18PRO 3:5ROM 5:8JAS 4:6James Bourne reflects on his journey from self-righteousness and reliance on his own strength to a place of surrender and reliance on God's grace. He acknowledges the futility of seeking approval and recognition from others, and the emptiness of outward displays of piety without true transformation of the heart. Through trials and despair, he comes to a point of complete dependence on God, realizing that only through faith in Jesus Christ can true hope and salvation be found.
Letter 2
0GEN 49:4PSA 27:9PSA 30:5PSA 34:18PSA 139:23ISA 41:10LAM 3:22ROM 8:38JAS 1:6REV 3:20James Bourne expresses his struggles with doubt, unbelief, and feeling separated from God, yet finds comfort in the unchangeable love of Jesus Christ. He reflects on the moments of refreshment and the fear of losing God's mercy, but ultimately experiences a breakthrough in understanding God's goodness and everlasting love. Bourne acknowledges his inability to revive his own soul and recognizes that only God can open doors and bring joy after weeping. Despite feeling unstable and blind at times, he holds onto the hope of God's faithfulness and mercy.
Letter 3
0ROM 7:21James Bourne writes to his sister expressing his struggles with spiritual darkness, unbelief, and a sense of unworthiness, yet desiring the presence and favor of God. He acknowledges the inner conflict between his sinful nature and his desire to serve God, recognizing the need for purification and surrender to God's will. Bourne finds comfort in the fact that afflictions draw him closer to God, leading him to cry out for mercy and seek the light of God's presence despite his shortcomings and fears.
Letter 4
0PSA 119:105ROM 10:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:22James Bourne shares a personal testimony of how 'The Barber' book, written by Mr. Huntington, brought light and conviction to his desperate condition after years of misery and vexation. Despite initial reluctance due to the controversial nature of Huntington's works, Bourne's encounter with 'The Barber' led him to a profound realization of his own self-deception and the need for salvation. He acknowledges the transformative power of the book in revealing the difference between religious formality and true spiritual understanding, ultimately leading him to cry out for God's saving grace.
Letter 5
0PSA 37:4PSA 51:17PRO 27:17ISA 26:3PHP 4:6James Bourne shares about his journey of rebellion and unbelief turning into repentance and full satisfaction in God's lovingkindness. Through conversations with Mr. Brook, he learns to trust in God's provision for both spiritual and temporal needs, leading to a deep sense of passivity and desire to know God's will. Bourne experiences a transformation in his faith, realizing that God hears his prayers, provides for his needs, and gives him peace that surpasses all understanding.
Letter 6
0JOB 23:10PSA 119:71PRO 3:5PHP 2:3JAS 4:10James Bourne shares a personal testimony of experiencing God's presence followed by a season of intense affliction and spiritual struggle. He describes feeling overwhelmed, battling with rebellion, self-will, and secret anger towards God, and the realization of his need for meekness and submission. Through this trial, he learns the importance of humility and surrendering to God's will, acknowledging his own pride and need for God's refining fire to humble him.
Letter 7
0PSA 27:14PSA 42:9PSA 88:14PSA 130:5LAM 3:55James Bourne, in a letter to W. J. Brook in London, 1808, expresses deep struggles with feeling separated from God's people, walking in darkness, and being held in perpetual contempt. Despite crying out to God for deliverance and seeking restoration of God's presence, there is a sense of hopelessness and fear. Bourne clings to the belief that God has a purpose in his affliction and longs for a word of support to help him patiently wait for God's salvation.
Letter 8
0PSA 27:14JHN 8:36ROM 5:32CO 12:9HEB 12:6James Bourne reflects on the goodness of God amidst afflictions, acknowledging the hard lesson of quietly waiting for God's timing and the struggle of submitting to His chastening hand. He marvels at God's merciful forbearance towards him despite his rebellion, recognizing the sweet moments of intimacy with God that afflictions bring. Bourne finds solace in prayer and the assurance of Christ's presence in the midst of desperation, learning valuable lessons in faith and dependence on God through trials and tribulations.
Letter 9
0PSA 23:4PSA 54:4PSA 94:19JHN 14:161CO 1:27James Bourne expresses gratitude for the lovingkindness of God, finding comfort and assurance in God's everlasting love during tumultuous times. He reflects on the peace and support he receives from God, even in the midst of battles, and acknowledges the presence of Jesus as a faithful companion. Bourne prays for continued guidance, teaching, and a grateful heart, believing in God's mercy and the manifestation of His chosen people. He appreciates the kindness shown to him and trusts that God will bless those who have supported him.
Letter 10
0PSA 46:1JHN 10:28ROM 8:31PHP 4:6JAS 4:8James Bourne shares about his unwavering hope in the Lord despite facing various challenges, finding comfort in God's presence and the support of the Holy Spirit. He acknowledges that without God's presence, he would feel lost, but with the Spirit's help, he remains steadfast. Bourne encourages his friend to stay close to God, seeking His guidance and a deeper revelation of Himself.
Letter 11
0PSA 34:17PSA 138:3PRO 11:22CO 12:9JAS 4:10James Bourne shares about his deep experiences of God's goodness and faithfulness amidst trials and afflictions, leading him to cry out to God and experience a close union with Him. He expresses a profound love for God even in the midst of suffering, recognizing that through afflictions, he finds inexpressible delight and a deep connection with his heavenly Friend. Bourne humbly acknowledges his own insignificance while placing strong confidence in God, marveling at the Lord's kindness in teaching us about His lovingkindness and humbling us to remove pride.
Letter 12
0PSA 55:22ISA 41:10ROM 8:282CO 4:171PE 1:41PE 5:7James Bourne, in a letter to his wife in 1812, expresses his grief over his son's relapse but desires to leave everything in God's hands. Despite facing reproach and his child's sickness, he finds comfort in God's love and providence, feeling drawn to submit passively to God's will. Bourne acknowledges the necessity of tribulations for God's children and expresses a deep desire to bear adversities with patience and thankfulness, knowing that God's love is precious to him. He reflects on the brevity of life and the hope of an eternal inheritance, trusting that God will be better to him than his fears, even in facing the unknowns of the future.
Letter 13
0PRO 3:52CO 12:9JAS 1:51PE 5:10James Bourne expresses his concerns in a letter to his cousin, highlighting the challenges of facing criticism and misunderstanding from others regarding his faith and spiritual experiences. He acknowledges the importance of relying on God's grace in Christ Jesus to stand firm in the midst of deception and to overcome his own limitations. Bourne emphasizes the need to trust in God's guidance and wisdom, even when faced with opposition and accusations of narrow-mindedness.
Letter 14
0PSA 32:8PRO 3:5MAT 7:13HEB 13:5JAS 1:22James Bourne emphasizes the narrow path to salvation, warning that many who think they are on it may not truly be, urging his cousin to seek grace to avoid this mistake. He highlights the contrast between true religion and mere notion, expressing the value of spiritual experiences often misunderstood by the world. Bourne encourages his cousin to seek divine guidance, reflecting on personal trials and the gradual unfolding of God's providence in his own life, leading to a deeper understanding and trust in God's faithfulness.
Letter 15
0PSA 51:17PSA 62:8LAM 3:25PHP 4:61PE 5:7James Bourne emphasizes the importance of turning away from evil ways and nature, surrendering to God's mercy, and seeking help directly from the Lord rather than relying on human means. He shares his personal struggles with anxieties and cares, highlighting the power of earnest prayer and patient waiting for God's salvation. Bourne expresses the joy and relief of experiencing God's tender mercy, assurance, and providence in times of trouble, emphasizing the peace found in casting all cares upon the Lord.
Letter 16
02CO 4:18James Bourne emphasizes the importance of seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness in all decisions, including where to settle and how to manage business. He contrasts the emptiness of prioritizing worldly pursuits with the fulfillment found in seeking eternal things and preserving spiritual life. Bourne encourages choosing a path that involves fellowship with believers, hearing the gospel, and enduring afflictions with God's people over a life of material abundance but spiritual emptiness. He urges the listener to prioritize following God and His people above all else for a truly fulfilling and blessed life.
Letter 17
0PSA 34:17PSA 51:10PSA 119:71JAS 1:21PE 5:10James Bourne shares a heartfelt letter expressing his struggles with illness, spiritual coldness, and the fear of death, yet finding comfort in God's mercy and kindness. He acknowledges his need for God's guidance, mercy, and instruction, recognizing the depth of sin revealed during his trials. Through his sharp conflict, he discovers a newfound sincerity, honesty, and earnestness in seeking God's will for his life.
Letter 18
0JOB 37:5JOB 38:31PSA 25:92CO 12:9PHP 4:6James Bourne writes a heartfelt letter to his wife, expressing his struggles and anxieties as he leaves London for Kidbrook. He seeks a sign from the Lord to confirm his presence and guidance, finding solace in the Scriptures, particularly in Job 37 and 38. Through his reading, he experiences a deep sense of humility, weakness, and joy as he feels the Lord's love and guidance. Bourne prays for strength to face challenges with grace and a behavior that reflects God's teachings, all while maintaining a heart filled with composure and watchfulness.
Letter 19
0PSA 51:17MIC 4:6GAL 6:92PE 1:10James Bourne writes a heartfelt letter to his wife, expressing his deep humility and sorrow for sin, inspired by the writings of Elisha Coles. He reflects on the consequences of unwise words like Moses speaking unadvisedly and the importance of seeking God's forgiveness. Bourne finds comfort in the idea that mortal sufferings lead to peaceable fruits of righteousness and that those who sow in tears will reap with joy in eternal life. He encourages diligence in making one's calling and election sure, looking forward to an abundant entrance into the everlasting kingdom of Jesus Christ.
Letter 78
01CO 9:24GAL 5:241TI 1:162TI 1:132TI 3:1James Bourne, in a sermon to M. J. and C. G. in London on April 26, 1835, addresses the challenges they face, emphasizing the necessity of enduring difficulties to obtain the prize. He warns against holding onto idols or secret sins, as seen in the story of the young man who chose worldly possessions over Christ. Bourne urges them to hold fast to faith and a good conscience, reminding them of the importance of enduring hardships as good soldiers for the incorruptible crown.