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13 May 2024

MY SAVIOUR FIRST OF ALL

Robert Cottrill Hymns 0

Words: Frances Jane (“Fanny”) Crosby (b. March 24, 1820; d. Feb. 12, 1915)
Music: John Robson Sweney (b. Dec. 31, 1837; d. Apr. 10, 1899)

Note: At the Cyber Hymnal (see link below), there’s an interesting story
connected with the singing of this 1891 hymn. The account of how it came to be
created is quite interesting too.

(Stanza numbers in brackets below refer to the stanza number in The Cyber
Hymnal. Find the link at the bottom of the article.)

Chautauqua Lake (pronounced sha-TOCK-wah) is located near Jamestown, New York.
On the shore of the small lake is the Chautauqua Institution founded in 1874, a
cultural and religious organization still in operation. In the days before mass
media, its program provided, through the summer months, popular lectures on
various subjects, concerts, recreation, and Bible studies as well.

It was at this camp that poet Mary Lathbury wrote two beautiful hymns for use in
the program: Break Thou the Bread of Life, and Day is Dying in the West. William
Sherwin, Chautauqua’s music director, provided the tunes for both. (Sherwin also
wrote words and music for the gospel song Sound the Battle Cry.)

Fanny Crosby spent a week each summer at the Chautauqua camp. She took part in
the program, and it also became a time to fellowship with other gospel
musicians. One of these was John Sweney. On one occasion they were sitting
together on the porch of the hotel when Sweney asked her an intriguing
question–whether we’ll recognize one another in heaven. She replied that she
thought we would. Then she added,

> But John, the question that is really on your mind is: ‘Fanny, your blind, and
> you’ve never seen a human being before; therefore how will you recognize your
> friends and especially the Lord?’

She responded that she thought it would be no trouble at all. But if for some
reason she didn’t recognize her Saviour, she said she’d go to Him and say, “May
I please look at your hands?” saying that she’d know Him by the print of the
nails in His hands.

It’s a bit of whimsy, of course. We’ll have no trouble, with the heightened
awareness we’ll have then, of not only recognizing each other, but instantly
recognizing the Lord Jesus Christ in all His glory. Fanny is likely close to the
truth when she says, “His smile will be the first to welcome [us]” (1). However,
the original thought captivated John Sweney, and he asked Fanny Crosby to put it
into a song, which she did, dictating the words to him the next morning.

(1) When my life work is ended, and I cross the swelling tide,
When the bright and glorious morning I shall see;
I shall know my Redeemer when I reach the other side,
And His smile will be the first to welcome me.

I shall know Him, I shall know Him,
And redeemed by His side I shall stand,
I shall know Him, I shall know Him,
By the print of the nails in His hand.

We know that Christ’s resurrection body still had the marks of Calvary upon it
(Lk. 24:40; Jn. 20:27). And John’s vision of Him in heaven was at times as “a
lamb as though it had been slain” (Rev. 5:6; cf. Jn 1:29). The work of Calvary
will never be far from our thoughts, as we worship the One who has “redeemed us
to God by [His] blood” (Rev. 5:9).

We’ll have many glad reunions in heaven, either with believers we’ve known
personally, or with great saints of Bible times and beyond that we’ve admired
over the years. As to whether we’ll know them all, yes. Surely we won’t know
less than we know now, but more (I Cor. 13:12).

I’m intrigued by the fact that Peter, James and John seemed to know Moses and
Elijah on the Mount of Transfiguration, without an introduction (Matt. 17:2-3).
I think the supernatural sense they were granted on that occasion will be common
in heaven. But Christ will be central to it all, as He was then (vs. 8).

(3) Oh, the dear ones in glory, how they beckon me to come,
And our parting at the river I recall;
To the sweet vales of Eden they will sing my welcome home;
But I long to meet my Saviour first of all.

QUESTIONS:

1. In addition to fellowshipping with our Saviour, and worshipping Him, what
Bible character(s) would you be most interested in meeting in heaven? (And
why?)
2. If we’ll be able to recall the great hymns we sang on earth, what hymn would
you especially like to sing in heaven? (And why?)

LINKS:

* 31 December 1823 – William Cushing Born
* My Saviour First of All (The Cyber Hymnal)

12 May 2024

LET THE LOWER LIGHTS BE BURNING

Robert Cottrill Hymns 0

Words: Philip Paul Bliss (b. July 9, 1838; d. Dec. 29, 1876)
Music: Ithica, by Philip Paul Bliss

Note: The Wordwise link at the end of this article describes the tragic incident
behind the writing of this hymn, and the Civil War heroism that led to the
writing of another of Bliss’s songs, Hold the Fort.

(Stanza numbers in brackets below refer to the stanza number in The Cyber
Hymnal. Find the link at the bottom of the article.)

As noted above, the historical incident behind this hymn is described in the
Wordwise link (as well as the Cyber Hymnal link). It will be helpful if you go
to one of them and read the story. But we need to understand the basic set-up,
in order to fully appreciate the hymn.

On Lake Erie, there was a harbour near Cleveland, with a large lighthouse on the
shore, then a series of lesser lights marking out the safe channel into the
harbour. Bliss likens the main lighthouse to the mercy of God or, we might say,
the Lord’s gracious provision for the salvation of sinners. And he uses the
channel lights to picture our witness to what Christ has done. If we do not
shine with the light of the gospel, who knows how many will fail to make the
safe harbour of God’s salvation?

There are a number of Scriptures that speak of spiritual light, and of believers
as lights in the world.

“God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have
fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.
But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one
another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin” (I Jn.
1:5-7)

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.
Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it
gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men,
that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matt.
5:14-16).

“You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of
light” (Eph. 5:8). “Become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault
in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as
lights in the world, holding fast [or holding up for all to see] the word of
life” (Phil. 2:15-16).

As you study these passages, you’ll see that they deal with two particular
areas–familiar to any who regularly read this blog. First, there is the light of
godly character and a godly walk. It can be summarized as Christ-likeness, or
what Galatians calls the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23). Second, there is
the light of service for the Lord, or Christian witness, as we shine for Jesus.

These cannot be separated of course. That is, to be truly Christ-like is also to
be a light for Him. And to try to be a light without seeking to grow in our
likeness to Him is hypocrisy and utter folly. But the focus of this particular
song is on the need to be witnesses (I Pet. 3:15) and “ambassadors” (II Cor.
5:20) for Christ.

Philip Bliss was in the audience when Dwight Moody preached a gospel message,
using a tragic incident as an illustration. Mr. Moody concluded by saying,
“Brethren, the Master will take care of the great lighthouse; let us keep the
lower lights burning.” Bliss later commented:

> I had read the newspaper account and I must admit I was shaken by the fact
> that one man’s negligence could be so costly, But it was when I heard Mr.
> Moody use it as an illustration in his message that night I cried out in my
> heart, “Bliss, you are just as guilty as the man in the story. As a Christian,
> you are to be one of the lower lights, shining brightly, so that some poor
> soul tossed about on the sea of life may find safety and everlasting life in
> the haven God has prepared.”…The very next week I wrote the song Lower Lights.
>
> Philip Bliss

(1) Brightly beams our Father’s mercy
From His lighthouse evermore,
But to us He gives the keeping
Of the lights along the shore.

Let the lower lights be burning!
Send a gleam across the wave!
Some poor fainting, struggling seaman
You may rescue, you may save.

(3) Trim your feeble lamp, my brother,
Some poor sailor tempest tossed,
Trying now to make the harbour,
In the darkness may be lost.

QUESTIONS:

1. How would you respond to a person who says something like this: “I don’t
know the Bible that well, and I’m sure no preacher, so I’m not able to be a
witness?”
2. Can you think of three specific ways you can be a witness for Christ in the
next week?

LINKS:

* 5 October 1864 – Hold the Fort inspired
* Let the Lower Lights be Burning (The Cyber Hymnal)

11 May 2024

PUTTING AWAY CHILDISH THINGS

Robert Cottrill Hymns, Ideas 2

“When I became a man, I put away childish things” (I Cor. 13:11).

It’s a comment I’ve heard and read many times, one that distresses and saddens
me. Often tossed out almost casually, it may reveal more than was intended.
Referring to a particular hymn or gospel song, the person will remark, “Our
church used to sing that when I was a child.”

What does that imply? That what has awakened memories of a bygone day has not
been used for quite some time. Which begs the question, why not? And is it just
that selection in particular? Or has a great deal of our traditional hymnody
been set aside? The context in which the observation is made usually suggests
the latter.

This blog currently has readers in almost two hundred countries of the world. I
hear again and again from those who sorrow because their churches have abandoned
the hymn book as being outmoded, and too out-of-date for the modern taste. Are
those who set it aside saying our needs have changed, making the songs no longer
relevant? That they’re a relic of the past to be abandoned like the horse and
buggy? If that’s the reasoning, such a misguided attitude needs to be
challenged.

For one thing, it is illuminating to see what has replaced the great hymns of
the faith in these churches. Usually, it’s what are known as praise choruses,
short, simple songs of devotion that commonly focus on subjective feelings about
God. Some of them are fine, if they’re used sparingly. But too many times they
have become the staple, and an almost unvarying diet, giving congregational
singing the doctrinal depth of a puddle.

At the church my wife and I currently attend, a chorus or two may be used to
introduce our Praise and Prayer Time, but the service overall will usually
include four or five hymns, ones with plenty of meat on the bones. And we need
that. After all, how else are we to teach and admonish one another with our
songs, as the Word of God calls us to do?

> Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching [explaining
> and instructing] and admonishing [exhorting and warning] one another in psalms
> and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
>
> Col. 3:16

It worries me that these contemporary-minded churches may have regressed to the
point that their congregations “need milk and not solid food,” having become
babes “unskilled in the word of righteousness” (Heb. 5:11-14). Continuing to be
fed short and repetitive choruses that provide little in the way of spiritual
instruction will not expose believers to the rich truths of the Scriptures.

Dip into our hymnody at any point and you’ll find devotional treasures worthy of
serious meditation. These are definitely not childish things. In fact, they turn
us from childhood’s naivete to seek more of God, and a greater understanding of
the spiritual realm. With the hymn writer we confess, “Unnumbered comforts to my
soul / Thy tender care bestowed, / Before my infant heart conceived / From whom
those comforts flowed.”

And our hymns can be convicting. Looking back, we may say, “O the years in
sinning wasted, / Could I but recall them now.” Or, in the words of another
song, “Years I spent in vanity and pride, / Caring not my Lord was crucified, /
Knowing not it was for me He died / On Calvary.” But blessedly, along with our
own folly, we’re reminded in our hymns of God’s faithfulness and abounding
grace. “Perverse and foolish oft I strayed, / But yet in love He sought me.”

And what of the troubles and trials of today? We can be assured that “E’en the
hour that darkest seemeth, / Will His changeless goodness prove.” So, “Judge not
the Lord by feeble sense, / But trust Him for His grace; / Behind a frowning
providence / He hides a smiling face.” Finally, consider this startling prayer
(cf. II Cor. 12:7-10): “Let sorrow do its work, / Send grief and pain; / Sweet
are Thy messengers, / Sweet the refrain, / When they can sing with me: / More
love, O Christ, to Thee.” (Nothing childish there!)

These brief quotations are sufficient to make the point. Casting away the
heritage of the church in sacred music is major folly. Please, don’t do it! If
we are to “present every man perfect [mature and fully equipped] in Christ
Jesus” (Col. 1:28), we need what God can teach us through our hymns. If we are
to put away childish things, let it be the notion that there’s nothing in this
vast treasury that can minister to us today or enrich our worship.

10 May 2024

WHEN HE COMETH

Robert Cottrill Hymns 1

Words: William Orcutt Cushing (b. Dec. 31, 1823; d. Oct. 19, 1902)
Music: Jewels, by George Frederick Root (b. Aug. 30, 1820; d. Aug. 6, 1895)

Note: There’s an inspiring story about a particular time when this 1856 song was
a great blessing. It comes from Ira Sankey, and is found in the Cyber Hymnal
link below.

William Cushing also collaborated with George Root on the gospel song Ring the
Bells of Heaven. In addition, Root wrote the words and music of She Only Touched
the Hem of His Garment, based on an incident recorded in Luke 8:43-48. Mr. Root
was a man of strong convictions. Before he died in 1895, he requested that
nothing be sung at his funeral other than the Doxology (“Praise God, from Whom
All Blessings Flow”).

While I admire his zeal for the glory of God alone, I do disagree with doing
that. Personally, if I should die before the Lord’s return, I want my memorial
service to be filled with music. Music that is both glorifying God and that
presents the message of the gospel.

(Stanza numbers in brackets below refer to the stanza number in The Cyber
Hymnal. Find the link at the bottom of the article.)

This hymn was written by Pastor Cushing specifically for the children in his
church’s Sunday School. However, other than the first line of (3), there’s no
particular focus on children. This is a hymn we all can sing. The Lord Jesus
called His disciples “little children” (Jn. 13:33). And the Apostle John also
speaks affectionately to Christians in his first epistle as “little children,”
where the context indicates he’s not referring to infants (I Jn. 2:1, 12, 13,
18, 28; 3:7, 18; 4:4; 5:21).

The text is based on a couple of Old Testament passages. One is Malachi 3:16-17,
which says:

> Then those who feared the LORD spoke to one another, and the LORD listened and
> heard them; so a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear
> the LORD and who meditate on His name. ‘They shall be Mine,’ says the LORD of
> hosts, ‘on the day that I make them My jewels. And I will spare them as a man
> spares his own son who serves him.’
>
> Malachi 3:16-17

The verses are referring to the godly remnant in Israel. In a time when God
judges the wicked, He will not forget to preserve those who have been faithful
to Him. They are His special treasure, cared for as one would value and protect
precious jewels. In the New Testament, the Church Age saints are described
similarly–as “the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints” (Eph.
1:18).

A second passage also seems to be reflected in Pastor Cushing’s song, especially
in the refrain:

> Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to
> everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise
> shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to
> righteousness like the stars forever and ever.
>
> Daniel 12:2-3

Again, the initial application of these verses is to the nation of Israel, those
who are described to Daniel as “your people” (vs. 1). There will be great
rewards to come for those of that nation who demonstrate their faith in God,
both by godly wisdom and service for the Lord. This is clearly a New Testament
theme as well. The Lord Jesus taught, there is a resurrection of life for those
who are born again, and a resurrection of condemnation for lost sinners (Jn.
5:28-29).

Though we’re not saved by our good works (Eph. 2:8-9), how we live becomes a
demonstration of our faith–or lack of it (Jas. 2:26; cf. Matt. 7:20). As Church
Age saints we can look forward to sharing in the glory of Christ, and being
rewarded for our service for Him (Col. 3:4; Rev. 19:7-8; 22:12).

(1) When He cometh, when He cometh
To make up His jewels,
All His jewels, precious jewels,
His loved and His own.

Like the stars of the morning,
His brightness adorning,
They shall shine in their beauty,
Bright gems for His crown.

(2) He will gather, He will gather
The gems for His kingdom;
All the pure ones, all the bright ones,
His loved and His own.

QUESTIONS:

1. What is implied when the Word of God refers to adult believers as “little
children”?
2. Do you agree with what George Root did? If not, what hymns and gospel songs
would you like to see used at your memorial service?

LINKS:

* 31 December 1823 – William Cushing Born
* When He Cometh (The Cyber Hymnal)

9 May 2024

PRAISE HIM, PRAISE HIM

Robert Cottrill Hymns 0

Words: Frances Jane (“Fanny”) Crosby (b. March 24, 1820; d. Feb. 12, 1915)
Music: Allen, by Chester G. Allen (b. Feb. 15, 1838; d. Oct. 18, 1878)

Note: There’s an interesting thing about this song, noted in the Cyber Hymnal.
When it was first published in 1869, in a Sunday School songbook entitled Bright
Jewels, it was quite a different hymn. I had never seen the original, so I
looked it up on a Net reprint of the old songbook. And there it was, number 82,
called in its first publication “Praise! Give Praise.” My friend Dick Adams has
printed the original text on the Cyber Hymnal, but it’s more of a curiosity now.

I doubt there’s a single contemporary hymnal that uses the original song. The
different endings to the three stanzas actually seem rather cumbersome. Whether
it was Fanny herself who recognized this, and made changes for later printings,
or an editor who did so, what we have now seems clearer and brighter. The
eight-line stanzas are reduced to six, with an added refrain. (In addition, a
couple of lines are changed in (2) and (3).)

(Stanza numbers in brackets below refer to the stanza number in The Cyber
Hymnal. Find the link at the bottom of the article.)

This hymn is a joyful call to praise the Lord, giving a number of reasons why we
should do so. Various forms of the word “praise” are used 264 times in our
English Bibles, with 152 of those found in the book of Psalms, the hymn book of
the Bible. Just looking at Psalms for a few examples, we can divide the
references into several categories: who we are to praise; why we are to praise;
and how we are to praise.

¤ Who? Thirty-five times Psalms tells us we are to “Praise the LORD [Jehovah
God]” (e.g. Ps. 135:1; 150:6). The Triune God–Father, Son, and Holy Spirit–is
the subject of our praise as we witness to others, and object of our praise as
we address God Himself. He, above all others, is “worthy to be praised” (Ps.
18:3).

¤ Why? For God’s marvellous works (Ps. 9:1); His salvation (Ps. 9:14); His power
(Ps. 21:13; 59:17); because it’s a beautiful thing to do (Ps. 33:1; 147:1); for
God’s greatness (Ps. 48:1; 96:4); because God’s name (reputation) is good (Ps.
54:6); for His loving kindness (Ps. 63:3); as a witness to the younger
generation (Ps. 78:4); for God’s faithfulness (Ps. 89:5); because God is holy
(Ps. 99:3); because His truth endures (Ps. 117:2); because God answers prayer
(Ps. 118:21); because He is righteous (Ps. 119:1); and because we are
wonderfully made (Ps. 139:14).

¤ How? With singing (many references to this, e.g. Ps. 7:17; 9:2, 11; 18:49;
27:6); with our whole hearts (Ps. 86:12); in the assembly of God’s people (Ps.
22:22; 52:9; 66:8; 111:1); among the nations (i.e. a witness among the unsaved
(Ps. 108:3); continually (Ps. 34:1; 35:28); with understanding (Ps. 47:7); with
joy (Ps. 63:5); with musical instruments (Ps. 71:22; 144:9; 150:3-5); as long as
we live (Ps. 104:33); with songs expressing our fresh experience of God (Ps.
149:1).

When we get to the New Testament, we learn that God is revealed, in His
fullness, in the person of the incarnate Christ, so that when we praise our
“blessed Redeemer” (1) for His “excellent greatness” (refrain), we are indeed
praising God, and we bring all that the Psalms teach us over on this side of the
cross.

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as
of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth” (Jn. 1:14). “For in
Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Col. 2:9). “God…has in these
last days spoken to us by His Son…the brightness of His glory and the express
image of His person” (Heb. 1:1-3). “Our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ”
(Tit. 213).

(1) Praise Him, praise Him–Jesus, our blessèd Redeemer,
Sing, O earth, His wonderful love proclaim.
Hail Him! hail Him! highest archangels in glory;
Strength and honour give to His holy name!
Like a shepherd, Jesus will guard His children,
In His arms He carries them all day long:

Praise Him! praise Him! tell of His excellent greatness;
Praise Him! praise Him! ever in joyful song.

(3) Praise Him, praise Him–Jesus, our blessèd Redeemer,
Heav’nly portals loud with hosannas ring,
Jesus, Saviour, reigneth forever and ever.
Crown Him! crown Him–Prophet, and Priest, and King!
Christ is coming! over the world victorious,
Power and glory unto the Lord belong:

QUESTIONS:

1. What is the most important truth this article has taught you, or brought to
mind?
2. What is commendable about the praise of God in the present-day church? What
is weaker or less worthy of Him in our praise?

LINKS:

* 24 March 1820 – Fanny Crosby Born
* Praise Him, Praise Him (The Cyber Hymnal)

8 May 2024

IS IT THE CROWNING DAY?

Robert Cottrill Hymns 0

Words: Henry Ostrom (b. Sept. 19, 1862; d. Dec. 20, 1941)
Music: Charles Howard Marsh (b. Apr. 8, 1886; d. Apr. 12, 1956)

Note: Henry Ostram (pen name, George Walker Whitcombe) was a Canadian-born
evangelist. You can learn more about him at the Wordwise link below.

(Stanza numbers in brackets below refer to the stanza number in The Cyber
Hymnal. Find the link at the bottom of the article.)

In spite of the fact that the Word of God states no one but God the Father knows
the time of Christ’s return (Matt. 24:30, 36), many have tried to predict when
it will occur. There is a list on Wikipedia here that gives about 165 different
dates claimed as “the Day,” down through the centuries. That works out to a new
prognostication about every ten or twelve years! And while I can’t vouch for the
accuracy of all the information on the site, some of the dates are certainly
familiar to me.

Sometimes (strangely!) Bible teachers will refer us to predictions in the
ancient Mayan calendar, or the writings of Zoroaster, Nostradamus, or of some
other supposed prophet. But what have these to do with the Holy Bible and its
God-inspired authors?

Another technique is to make complicated calculations using biblical numerology.
Both in Hebrew and Greek, the ancients gave each letter of the alphabet a number
value. In addition, it does seem as though certain numbers in Scripture have a
special significance–the numbers three, seven, ten, and forty, for example. With
mathematical juggling, this leaves room to “prove” almost anything from the
Bible–whether or not the ideas are actually there.

There are various sects or would-be students of the Scriptures, who have made
several “definite” predictions over the years. When a chosen date passes, and
the event does not take place, there is some explanation given for the error, or
they move on in embarrassed silence, and a new date is set. This is
self-deceived folly.

Fanatical adherents of some groups have been known to sell all their possessions
in preparation for the big day. This is sad, for several reasons. In the extreme
just mentioned, it may leave individuals homeless and destitute. But beyond
that, for many it simply casts doubt on the Word of God–even though no date is
ever mentioned there–and it brings dishonour to God who inspired His trustworthy
Word (cf. II Tim. 3:16).

Let’s leave these foolish games aside, and turn once more to the Word itself.
“It is not for [us] to know the times or seasons which the Father has put in His
own authority” (Acts 1:7). But what do we know, because it can be found on the
pages of Scripture? What do “holy men of God” tell us, those who “spoke as they
were moved by the Holy Spirit” (II Pet. 1:21)?

We know that the Lord Jesus Christ, who ascended back into heaven after His
resurrection, definitely is coming again. His return is spoken of time after
time. He Himself has said He will come again (Jn. 14:3; Rev. 22:12, 20). Angelic
messengers confirmed this at His ascension (Acts 1:11), and the apostles taught
it consistently.

And simple logic indicates that Christ’s return is nearer today than it ever was
before. We mustn’t be discouraged by the seeming delay. God does not count time
as we do (II Pet. 3:8), and He is waiting to give as many as possible an
opportunity to repent, turn to Christ, and be saved (vs. 9).

Though some of my readers will differ with my premillennial and pretribulational
position, it seems to me that we can agree Christians are to live each day
expectantly, when it comes to this subject. Whether or not it happens today, or
years from now, we ought to be spiritually ready. This will involve both our
personal spiritual preparedness (I Jn. 3:2-3), and our diligence in serving the
Lord. Of course we need to plan for the future, but we also need to be ready for
a sudden end to this old earth’s story.

This involves the doctrine of immanency (a sense of the possible return of
Christ at any moment). The apostolic church lived in the light of that blessed
hope.

* “Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the
Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Phil. 3:20).
* “You turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait
for His Son from heaven” (I Thess. 1:9-10).
* “We who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the
clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the
Lord” (I Thess. 4:17).
* “I urge you [Timothy]… that you keep this commandment without spot, blameless
until our Lord Jesus Christ’s appearing” (I Tim. 6:13-14).
* “The coming of the Lord is at hand” (Jas. 5:8).
* “Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and
Saviour Jesus Christ” (Tit. 2:13)

(1) Jesus may come today
Glad day, glad day!
And I would see my Friend;
Dangers and troubles would end
If Jesus should come today.

Glad day, glad day!
Is it the crowning day?
I’ll live for today, nor anxious be;
Jesus, my Lord I soon shall see.
Glad day, glad day!
Is it the crowning day?

QUESTIONS:

1. How should the awareness of the at-any-moment return of Christ affect your
life today?
2. Why do you think some Christians have lost the thrill of the imminent return
of Christ?

LINKS:

* 20 December 1941 – Henry Ostrom Died
* Is It The Crowning Day? (The Cyber Hymnal)

7 May 2024

O SACRED HEAD, NOW WOUNDED

Robert Cottrill Hymns 8

Words: Bernard of Clairvaux (b. _____, 1091; d. Aug. 21, 1153)
Music: Hans Leo Hassler (b. Oct. 25, 1654; d. June 8, 1612)

Note: Though hymn books traditionally attribute this Mediaeval text to Bernard,
evidence is lacking to definitely prove his authorship of the original Latin
poem. Some suggest Arnulf of Louvain (or Leuven) (1200-1251) as a possibility.
Arnulf was a Cistercian abbot, and a poet.

Lutheran pastor Paul Gerhardt (1607-1676) made a German translation of the hymn
in 1656, and James Waddel Alexander (1804-1859), a Presbyterian pastor,
translated the hymn into English in 1830.

As for the tune, in 1601 Hassler adapted it from a secular ballad of the day. In
1729 Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) used it in his oratorio the St. Matthew
Passion. It is Bach’s harmonization that is commonly used in our hymn books.

(Stanza numbers in brackets below refer to the stanza number in The Cyber
Hymnal. Find the link at the bottom of the article.)

This hymn text comes from the Mediaeval practice of viewing and speaking to the
form of the crucified Christ, as represented by a crucifix. Hymnologist Ellen
Jane Lorenz (Two Hundred Hymn Stories, p. 37) writes that there is a legend from
the time that the image of Christ on the cross bowed itself and embraced
Bernard, as a token that his devotion was accepted.

The lengthy Latin poem was divided into seven parts, one for each day of Holy
Week. The seven sections deal with seven parts of Christ’s body on the cross:
His feet, knees, hands, sides, breast, heart, and head. For example, the hymn
writer says (3): “The blushes late residing upon that holy cheek….Alas! they
have departed.”

It’s the final section of the poem addressing Christ’s head that Gerhardt and
Alexander adopted. The Cyber Hymnal gives us ten stanzas, of which only three or
four are commonly found in our hymnals: (1), (4), and (8), with some hymn books
also including (10). (Note: “vouchsafe” in (4) means to condescend to grant a
favour.)

Though this hymn has been embraced by Protestant congregations, there is a
strong atmosphere of Mediaeval Roman Catholicism about it. The original title
was: “A rhythmical prayer to any one of the members [i.e. body parts] of Christ,
suffering and hanging on the cross.” But are we called upon by the Scriptures to
pray to the parts of Christ’s body on the cross? In fact, is He now on the
cross?

Carlton R. Young, in his Companion to the United Methodist Hymnal (p. 526)
asserts that this practice of addressing Christ on the cross has carried over
into Protestantism, but the examples he gives do not seem to support his
argument. One is Isaac Watts’ hymn When I Survey the Wondrous Cross. But this
hymn calls for us to look upon (“survey”) the cross, with the eyes of faith,
considering its significance. It doesn’t involve speaking to the dying Saviour
there–let alone addressing His various body parts!

While we, as Christians, look back upon the sufferings of Christ with awe and
reverence, we know that Christ was afterwards triumphant over death, then
ascended and is seated at the Father’s right hand. We now come before our living
and glorified “great High Priest” in heaven, seeking mercy and grace in His holy
name (Heb. 4:14-16), “knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead,
dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him” (Rom. 6:9). That is why the
crosses in Protestant churches are empty. “For the death that He died, He died
to sin once for all” (Heb. 6:10).

Having said these things, the three stanzas most commonly used today are the
best, in my view. And there is a warmth of devotion and faith in them–and
certainly truth regarding the substitutionary nature of the death of Christ.
(Gerhardt’s adaption of the original has strengthened this.) Separated by eleven
or twelve centuries from its ritual application, the hymn is used by many
congregations, especially at the Easter season. I’ve included it in services
myself. However, the background may give some Christians pause.

(1) O sacred head, now wounded,
With grief and shame weighed down,
Now scornfully surrounded
With thorns, Thine only crown;
O sacred head, what glory!
What bliss, till now was Thine!
Yet, though despised and gory,
I joy to call Thee mine.

(4) What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered,
Was all for sinners’ gain;
Mine, mine was the transgression,
But Thine the deadly pain.
Lo, here I fall, my Saviour!
’Tis I deserve Thy place;
Look on me with Thy favour,
Vouchsafe to me Thy grace.

QUESTIONS:

1. Is this a hymn you do (or would) use? (Why? Or why not?)
2. What great hymns about the cross have been a blessing to you?

LINKS:

* 25 October 1564 – Hans Hassler Born
* O Sacred Head, Now Wounded (The Cyber Hymnal)

6 May 2024

THERE IS POWER IN THE BLOOD

Robert Cottrill Hymns 0

Words: Lewis Edgar Jones (b. Feb. 8, 1865; d. Sept. 1, 1936)
Music: Lewis Edgar Jones

Note: This gospel song is sometimes called simply Power in the Blood. Mr. Jones
wrote both words and music for it in 1899, while he was attending a camp meeting
in Maryland. The tune is very singable. It seems to lend itself to speed, and a
heavy beat (as with the version here). But my own preference is to slow it down
and smooth it out. After all, we’re singing of the agonies of the cross, God’s
provision for the evils of our sin, and the ugly passion of pride.

(Stanza numbers in brackets below refer to the stanza number in The Cyber
Hymnal. Find the link at the bottom of the article.)

The shed blood of Christ represents His death. To say Jesus shed His blood is to
say that He died. Yet the one is not replaceable by the other–as some Bible
translators and hymn writers suppose. The shed blood of the innocent sacrifice
is important to the unfolding of the Bible’s message. “The life of the flesh is
in the blood,” and “it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul [i.e. the
life of the individual]” (Lev. 17:11). “Without the shedding of blood there is
no remission [no forgiveness of sins]” (Heb. 9:22). Not surprisingly, therefore,
Peter speaks of “the precious blood of Christ” (I Pet. 1:19).

For those who put their faith in the Saviour, here are just a few of the things
accomplished by the blood of Christ, shed upon the cross of Calvary (Jn. 19:34):

¤ We find God is “propitiated,” meaning His justice is satisfied by the payment
made by His Son (Rom. 3:25; cf. I Cor. 5:7)
¤ We are redeemed, and forgiven of our sins (Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14; Rev. 5:9)
¤ We belong to Christ, not only by His right as Creator, but by the right of
purchase (Acts 20:28; cf. I Cor. 6:19-20)
¤ We receive initial cleansing when we’re saved (Rev. 1:5)
¤ We have continued cleansing available when we sin, as we confess our sins to
God (I Jn. 1:7, 9)
¤ We are justified, pronounced righteous by a holy God (Rom. 5:9)
¤ We have peace with God (Col. 1:20; cf. Rom. 5:1)
¤ We have immediate access to God in prayer (Eph. 2:13; Heb. 10:19; cf. Heb.
4:14-16)
¤ We are sanctified, set apart for God as His own special treasure (Heb. 13:11;
cf. Eph. 1:18)
¤ We have victory over Satan and all the forces of evil (Rev. 12:11; cf. Heb.
2:14)

Nor will these wonderful truths be lost and forgotten in eternity. The Lord
Jesus Christ is called God’s “Lamb” twenty-seven times in the book of
Revelation. It is a title that points us right back to His sacrifice for sin.
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain” (Rev. 5:12; cf. Jn. 1:29).

(1) Would you be free from the burden of sin?
There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;
Would you o’er evil a victory win?
There’s wonderful power in the blood.

There is power, power, wonder working power
In the blood of the Lamb;
There is power, power, wonder working power
In the precious blood of the Lamb.

(2) Would you be free from your passion and pride?
There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;
Come for a cleansing to Calvary’s tide;
There’s wonderful power in the blood.

QUESTIONS:

1. Does your church seem to shy away from hymns about the shed blood of Christ?
(If so, why?)
2. What other hymns about the blood of Christ do you know and use? (The Cyber
Hymnal includes over a hundred of them in a topical list, here.)

LINKS:

* 8 February 1865 – Lewis Jones Born
* There Is Power In The Blood (The Cyber Hymnal)

5 May 2024

I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVETH

Robert Cottrill Hymns 0

Words: Jessie H. Brown Pounds (b. Aug. 31, 1861; d. March 3, 1921)
Music: Hannah, by James Henry Filmore, Sr. (b. June 1, 1849; d. Feb. 8, 1936)

Note: The words of Job in Job 19:25, forming the title and first line of this
song, are significant to the story of Job himself, and to all of us. It’s not
surprising, therefore, that there’ve been a number of hymns by the same name.
The Cyber Hymnal lists an excellent one by Samuel Medley, and a couple of
others. The text is also used by George Frederick Handel, in his Messiah. Jessie
Brown’s song was published in 1893, as part of an Easter cantata; it was first
printed in a hymn book in 1896 (the year of her marriage to Pastor John Pounds).

(Stanza numbers in brackets below refer to the stanza number in The Cyber
Hymnal. Find the link at the bottom of the article.)

As noted above, the opening declaration of this hymn is significant in the book
of Job. He had been enduring the most terrible and excruciating trials, likely
for several months. Not knowing the involvement of Satan, Job could only think
that God had somehow changed toward him. But this made no sense. He was a godly
man who walked with God before his suffering began and was greatly blessed. He
did not depart from this path in a way that would turn God against Him. (And the
Lord agreed with Job about that–cf. Job 1:1, 2:3).

Could it be that God’s blessings are somehow arbitrary and random? Or that God
is, after all, unjust? Job is like a man lost in a cave, trying desperately to
find a way out. In soaring arguments he explores one possible option after
another, but without a resolution. And it is important to note that rather than
rebelling against the Lord in his misery, he is desperately trying to find
Him.“Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him,” says Job (13:15).

His “friends,” of course, with their narrow theology, blame him of some great
wickedness (e.g. 15:5-6; 22:5). They adhere to a theory of instant justice. Do
right, and God will bless you–right away. Do wrong, and God will punish you,
immediately. When Job protests his innocence, they rant and rail against him for
being proud and deceitful–and demonstrably wicked.

However, Job is far beyond them in his understanding of the ways of God. No
narrow “instant justice” for him. He believes in the afterlife, and the
resurrection of the dead. If he is not able to meet with God and find answers to
his questions in this life, he is confident he will be able to do so, and find
justice, in the next. It is in this context that he declares:

> “I know that my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth; and
> after my skin is destroyed [or, after my skin worms destroy this body, KJV],
> this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself,
> and my eyes shall behold, and not another [i.e. not as a stranger, but as a
> friend].”
>
> Job 19:25-27

Jessie Brown is confident in the Lord too. But she looks at the key passage in
Job from a different perspective, because she stands (as we all do now) between
the first and second comings of Christ. Therefore, her assurance concerns the
coming triumphant return of her Redeemer as King of kings and Lord of Lords.

(1) I know that my Redeemer liveth,
And on the earth again shall stand;
I know eternal life He giveth,
That grace and power are in His hand.

The basis of her assurance is the trustworthy Word of the Lord. The Lord Jesus
has promised, “I will come again” (Jn. 14:3; cf. Rev. 22:12, 20).

(2) I know His promise never faileth,
The Word He speaks, it cannot die;
Though cruel death my flesh assaileth,
Yet I shall see Him by and by.

Finally, Miss Brown turns to the pledge of the Lord Jesus in John 14:2-3 (cf.
17:24), that He is preparing heavenly dwelling places for His own, confident
that we shall dwell with Him forever. Whatever trials and testings we face now,
they will one day end in the glory of His presence.

(3) I know my mansion He prepareth,
That where He is there I may be;
O wondrous thought, for me He careth,
And He at last will come for me.

QUESTIONS:

1. How do you know that your Redeemer lives–what gives you that confidence?
2. Trials are painful. Yet, we are assured that God works in them for our good
(Rom. 8:28). What kind of good comes from them?

LINKS:

* 31 August 1861 – Jessie Pounds Born
* I Know That My Redeemer Liveth (The Cyber Hymnal)

4 May 2024

THE KING IS COMING (SANKEY)

Robert Cottrill Hymns 0

Words: Ira David Sankey (b. Aug. 28, 1840; d. Aug. 13, 1908)
Music: Ira David Sankey

Note: As you can see, Ira Sankey wrote both the words and music for this song,
published in 1888. It should not be mistaken for the much more recent song with
that title, written by the Gaithers (a song exhibiting some rather confused
theology!). Sankey’s composition of his joyful song took place under rather
unusual circumstances–to say the least! The story is told, in Sankey’s own
words, in both links at the end of this article.

(Stanza numbers in brackets below refer to the stanza number in The Cyber
Hymnal. Find the link at the bottom of the article.)

Ira Sankey was uniquely gifted for the ministry the Lord gave him on both sides
of the Atlantic. He was, to evangelist Dwight L. Moody, what Cliff Barrows and
Bev Shea combined have been to the modern evangelist Billy Graham. But more than
that, Sankey also played the organ. And he composed music, wrote gospel songs
himself, and served as the editor and publisher of popular songbooks.

There are recordings of Mr. Sankey singing some familiar hymns here. But you
need to realize that these were made near the end of his life, when he was in
ill health. They don’t give a true picture of the powerful baritone voice (that
sang to thousands without amplification) stirring audiences for many years, and
effectively presenting the gospel in song.

In 1870, Ira Sankey attended a Y.M.C.A Convention in Indianapolis (back in the
days when the word “Christian” in Young Men’s Christian Association meant far
more than today). The singing was at first lacklustre, and Mr. Sankey, whose
reputation as a song leader and soloist had already been established, was asked
to lead. He began the singing with There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood, and
those gathered responded heartily.

After the meeting, the singer was introduced to evangelist Dwight Moody. He says
this of their first meeting–which shows something of Moody’s decisive
leadership. In Sankey’s own words:

> “He stepped forward and, taking me by the hand, looked at me in that keen,
> piercing fashion of his, as if reading my very soul. Then he said abruptly,
> ‘Where are you from?’ ‘Pennsylvania,’ I replied. ‘Are you married?’ ‘I am.’
> ‘How many children have you?’ ‘Two.’ ‘What is your business?’ ‘I am a
> government officer [he collected for the Internal Revenue].’ ‘Well, you’ll
> have to give that up!’ I was too much astonished to make any reply, and he
> went on, as if the matter had already been decided: ‘I have been looking for
> you for the past eight years. You’ll have to come to Chicago and help me in my
> work.’”

Moody was no musician himself, but he understood the power of music to convey
the truth of God’s Word. Some months later, the thirty-year-old Sankey resigned
his government job and became part of Moody’s team, a partnership that would be
greatly used of God over many years.

As to the present song, it emphasizes the joyful prospect of the soon return of
Christ. Yes, the Lord has delayed His return for two thousand years now, but for
a gracious purpose. “[He] is not willing that any should perish but that all
should come to repentance” (II Pet. 3:9). Even so, the final day will come. God
does not count time as we do (vs. 8), and Christ will return suddenly,
unexpectedly.

“For yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not tarry”
(Heb. 10:37). “Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand”
(Jas. 5:8).

(1) Rejoice! Rejoice! our King is coming!
And the time will not be long,
Until we hail the radiant dawning,
And lift up the glad new song.

Oh, wondrous day! oh, glorious morning,
When the Son of Man shall come!
May we with lamps all trimmed and burning
Gladly welcome His return!
Rejoice! Rejoice! our King is coming!
And the time will not be long,
Until we hail the radiant dawning,
And lift up the glad new song.

The thrust of the final stanza is that we should be watchful and ready for the
Lord’s return, meanwhile, continuing to stand for the truth and serve Him.

“Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one
according to his work” (Rev. 22:12).“Having then gifts differing according to
the grace that is given to us, let us use them” (Rom. 12:6). “As each one has
received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold
grace of God” (I Pet. 4:10).

(3) Oh, may we never weary, watching,
Never lay our armour down
Until He come, and with rejoicing
Give to each the promised crown.

QUESTIONS:

1. In what way(s) do you intend to keep busy for the Lord, until His return?
2. What other hymns about the Second Coming do you enjoy and sing?

LINKS:

* 13 August 1908 – Ira Sankey Died
* The King is Coming (The Cyber Hymnal)

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