# Welcome Cross explained — Olney Hymns

> Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/16-welcome-cross
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters