Olney Hymns · Chapter
Jehovah-Rophi—I Am the Lord That Healeth Thee explained
This hymn by Cowper, based on Exodus 15, is a prayer for healing and faith.
What happens
This hymn by Cowper, based on Exodus 15, is a prayer for healing and faith. The speaker and fellow believers acknowledge their weak faith and deep wounds, yet they approach Christ, recalling the examples of the man who cried 'Lord, I believe, help my unbelief' and the woman who touched Jesus in the crowd and was healed. They express both hope and fear, asking that none be sent away unhealed.
Themes in this chapter
Faith and Trust in Christ
The hymn confesses feeble faith but trusts in Christ's willingness to heal, recalling the father's cry 'Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.'
Suffering and Affliction
The 'deep-wounded souls' and the plea for healing highlight the affliction of sin and doubt.
Characters to notice
- Jesus Christ
Addressed as Emmanuel and Saviour, the healer to whom the wounded souls repair.
- The Narrator
The speaker confesses feeble faith and joins with others in seeking healing.
- The Waiting Soul
Represents the collective 'we' who are deep-wounded and waiting for Christ's touch.
Key passages
“Lord, I believe, with tears he cried, '0 help my unbelief!'”
The man in the Gospel, weeping, said, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief.'
Reference to Mark 9:24, illustrating the struggle between faith and doubt.
“She too who touch'd thee in the press, And healing virtue stole, Was answer'd, 'Daughter, go in peace: Thy faith hath made thee whole.'”
The woman who secretly touched Jesus in the crowd and was healed received the response, 'Daughter, your faith has saved you; go in peace.'
Reference to the healing of the woman with the issue of blood (Mark 5:25-34).