# The Borrowed Axe explained — Olney Hymns

> Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton.

## What happens

This poem by Newton recounts the miracle of the borrowed axe from 2 Kings 6:5-6. The sons of the prophets, though poor in worldly terms, are rich in grace and wisdom learned at Elisha's feet. When one drops a borrowed axe into the water, Elisha prays and the iron floats, demonstrating God's care even in small matters and His faithfulness to those who trust in Him.

## Themes in this chapter

### Divine Providence and Guidance

The poem emphasizes God's condescending care for the poor and unworthy, showing that He is attentive to even the smallest concerns of His people.

### Grace and Unmerited Favor

The miracle is an act of grace, as God responds to the prayer of a poor prophet's son, demonstrating His unmerited favor toward those who trust in Him.

## Character check-ins

### Elisha

The prophet who prays and performs the miracle of making the iron axe head swim.

### The Lord

The Lord of all who performs the miracle to teach that no concern is too small for His care.

### The Narrator

The poetic voice reflecting on the miracle and its spiritual lesson.

## Key lines

> The prophets’ sons in times of old, Though to appearance poor, Were rich without possessing gold, And honour’d though obscure.

The sons of the prophets in ancient times, though outwardly poor, were truly rich in spiritual wealth and honored despite being unknown.

_Highlights the contrast between worldly poverty and spiritual richness._

> If God in such a small affair A miracle performs, It shows his condescending care Of poor unworthy worms.

If God works a miracle in such a trivial matter, it demonstrates His gracious and humble care for insignificant and undeserving creatures.

_Emphasizes God's care for the lowly and the importance of trusting Him in all things._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/39-the-borrowed-axe
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters