Description
Of the works of James Durham, this exposition of the Ten Commandments was the most often reprinted. As with his sermons it is filled with perspicuous opening of the Word, practical application, and in clearing “several momentous questions and cases of conscience.” The only regret is that because he was preaching similar material at the time, the coverage by these lectures of the first table is lengthier than of the commands of the second table. Nevertheless, the work has always been held in regard and the in-depth treatments of the second, third and fourth commandments commend it, and make it particularly useful and timely for this day wherein the Lord’s name, worship and day of worship are much abused. Gilfillan observes on the last, that “the Law Unsealed of the eminent James Durham, published in 1675 by his widow, contains a very full and able discussion of Sabbatic doctrine and duty, and discovers the learning and deep piety which are evident in his other writings. It received the warm commendation of Dr. Owen, and its numerous editions attest the large measure of popular favour which it has won.” Indeed, Walker observes, Durham’s “thorough, searching, cumbrous intellect, reminds you not seldom of John Owen.” After 1802, this work was not reprinted again until the Naphtali Press edition of 2002. This new edition has been carefully collated and checked against the first and early editions and the text corrected and notations considerably augmented.