Olney Hymns · Chapter
Welcome Cross explained
The poem expresses the believer's acceptance of trials and afflictions as a means of spiritual growth and closeness to God.
What happens
The poem expresses the believer's acceptance of trials and afflictions as a means of spiritual growth and closeness to God. It portrays the cross as a welcome companion that sanctifies losses, teaches humility, and deepens prayer, while warning that the absence of trials may indicate being a 'cast-away' rather than a true child of God.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Affliction
Trials are seen as necessary and beneficial, sent by God to sanctify and draw the believer to Him.
Prayer and Dependence on God
Trials give new life to prayer and bring the believer to God's feet in humility.
Characters to notice
- God
Sows seeds of affliction and uses trials to draw the believer closer.
- The Narrator
Expresses personal happiness in knowing the Savior's power through the cross.
- Jesus Christ
Referred to as the Savior whose power sanctifies every loss.
Key passages
“Trials make the promise sweet; Trials give new life to pray’r; Trials bring me to his feet, Lay me low and keep me there.”
Afflictions enhance the value of God's promises, invigorate prayer, and humble the believer before God.
The poet emphasizes the positive role of trials in spiritual life.
“Bastards may escape the rod, Sunk in earthly vain delight; But the true-born child of God Must not, would not, if he might.”
Those who are not true children of God may avoid discipline, but genuine believers accept and even desire God's chastening.
The poem contrasts illegitimate children with true children of God.