Edward McKendree Bounds (1835-1913) was an American author, attorney, and member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South clergy. While best known for his classic books on prayer, his others are beginning to be rediscovered by a new generation.
Bounds was a Missouri native, and by the age of 19, he became the youngest practicing attorney in his home state. However, he began to feel God’s call on his life, and by the age of 24 (in 1859), he was ordained and pastoring a church in Monticello, Missouri.
Shortly after his appointment, he fell into controversy during the Civil War. Because of his pastorate, his name was added to a list of people who were being required to take an oath of allegiance to the Union. The Union also required a contribution of $500 to the cause. Bounds disagreed with this type of fundraising (and besides, didn’t have $500), and was arrested, being charged as a Confederate sympathizer. He spent a year and a half in federal prison, and was eventually released.
After his release, Bounds thought he would be of best use as a chaplain for the Confederacy, with the 3rd Missouri Infantry CSA. But during the Second Battle of Franklin, Bounds suffered a severe head wound caused by a Union saber, and was again imprisoned, this time as a prisoner of war. He was released in 1865, shortly after the Civil War ended.
Not to be dissuaded from his home and the people who he loved, Bounds returned to Missouri to aid in spiritually rebuilding the war-torn area. It will come as no surprise to those familiar with Bounds that his most powerful ministry came through his weekly prayer meetings, which were known to often last several hours.
Bounds faithfully ministered until his death in 1913, and his many books have endured long after.
For more from Bounds, and for some of the best Christian books of all time, visit the publisher at JawboneDigital.com/Bounds
