Olney Hymns · Chapter
Paul's Farewell Charge explained
This hymn reflects on Paul's emotional farewell to his friends, emphasizing the temporary sorrow of separation and the joyful reunion promised in heaven.
What happens
This hymn reflects on Paul's emotional farewell to his friends, emphasizing the temporary sorrow of separation and the joyful reunion promised in heaven. It also warns of the consequences for those who reject the gospel, while expressing the preacher's heartfelt desire for the salvation of their hearers.
Themes in this chapter
Hope of Heaven and Eternal Life
The hymn looks forward to a joyful reunion in heaven where sorrow is wiped away.
Suffering and Affliction
The weeping at parting reflects the affliction of separation, yet it is tempered by divine comfort.
Characters to notice
- Paul
The central figure, parting from his friends with tears but confident in future reunion.
- Jesus Christ
The one who wipes away tears and ensures a joyful meeting in glory.
- The Saints
The friends and fellow believers who share in the hope of reunion and worship.
Key passages
“When Paul was parted from his friends It was a weeping day; But Jesus made them all amends, And wiped their tears away.”
The separation from his friends brought tears, but Jesus consoled them and turned their sorrow into joy.
Highlights the comfort found in Christ amidst the pain of parting.
“Ere long they met again with joy (Secure, no more to part,) Where praises every tongue employ, And pleasure fills each heart.”
Soon they will reunite in heaven, where there is no more separation, and all will rejoice in praise.
Expresses the hope of eternal fellowship in glory.
“But they who heard the word in vain, Though oft and plainly warn’d, Will tremble when they meet again The ministers they scorn’d.”
Those who rejected the gospel message will face the preachers they despised with fear and trembling.
A warning of the consequences of ignoring the gospel.
“On your own heads your blood will fall If any perish here; The preachers who have told you all Shall stand approved and clear.”
If any are lost, the blame lies on themselves; the preachers who faithfully delivered the message will be vindicated.
Emphasizes personal responsibility and the preacher's innocence.
“Yet, Lord, to save themselves alone Is not their utmost view; Oh! hear their prayer, thy message own, And save their hearers too.”
The preacher's desire is not merely their own salvation, but that their hearers would also be saved; they pray for God's blessing on the message.
Shows the pastoral heart and dependence on God for fruit.