# Chapter 102 explained — Olney Hymns

> Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton.

## What happens

This chapter is a benediction and prayer, invoking the peace of God that is revealed through His word and felt only by believers. It asks for the blessing of the Holy Trinity—Father, Word, and Comforter—to be poured out upon the assembled congregation.

## Themes in this chapter

### Grace and Unmerited Favor

The chapter asks for an 'abundant blessing' to be poured out, emphasizing the unearned nature of divine favor.

### Prayer and Dependence on God

The entire chapter is a prayer for divine peace and blessing, demonstrating a posture of dependence on God.

## Character check-ins

### God

Reveals peace and imparts grace through His word.

### Jesus Christ

Referred to as 'the Word' in the Trinitarian blessing.

### The Holy Spirit

Referred to as 'the Comforter' in the Trinitarian blessing.

### The Saints

The 'every soul assembled here' who are the recipients of the blessing.

## Key lines

> The peace which God alone reveals, And by his word of grace imparts, Which only the believer feels, Direct and keep and cheer your hearts

May the peace that comes only from God, given through His gracious word and felt only by those who believe, guide, protect, and encourage your hearts.

_This paraphrase clarifies the source and condition of the peace being invoked._

> And may the Holy Three in One, The Father, Word, and Comforter, Pour an abundant blessing down On every soul assembled here.

And may the triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—shower a rich blessing upon everyone gathered in this place.

_This paraphrase identifies the 'Holy Three in One' as the Trinity and expands on the nature of the blessing._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/102
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters