Olney Hymns · Chapter
On Opening a Place for Social Prayer explained
This hymn by Newton is a prayer for divine blessing upon a newly opened place for social prayer.
What happens
This hymn by Newton is a prayer for divine blessing upon a newly opened place for social prayer. It asks God to inspire the worshippers, to manifest His presence, to grant hearts to pray, and to pour out blessings of peace, love, and healing. The hymn also petitions for the growth of grace, the reception of God's word, and the awakening of sinners through the gospel.
Themes in this chapter
Prayer and Dependence on God
The entire hymn is a prayer, expressing dependence on God for inspiration, presence, and blessing in the new place of worship.
Grace and Unmerited Favor
The hymn asks for 'mighty grace' to enforce the gospel and for God to 'pour thy blessings from above', acknowledging that all spiritual benefits come from God's unmerited favor.
Characters to notice
- The Lord
Addressed as the Shepherd of His people, asked to display His presence and give hearts to pray.
- The Waiting Soul
The congregation is described as having 'languid souls' and 'waiting heart', seeking inspiration and warmth.
- The Saints
The worshippers are referred to as 'thy people' and are the recipients of the blessings and graces requested.
Key passages
“Send down a coal of heav’nly fire To warm each waiting heart.”
Bestow a spark of divine love to kindle warmth in every expectant heart.
The imagery of a coal from the altar suggests purification and the presence of God.
“As thou hast given a place for pray’r, So give us hearts to pray.”
Just as You have provided this location for prayer, also grant us the desire and ability to pray.
Acknowledges that both the opportunity and the inclination to pray are gifts from God.
“Within these walls let holy peace And love and concord dwell;”
May this building be filled with sacred peace, love, and harmony.
A prayer for the spiritual atmosphere of the meeting place.
“And may the gospel’s joyful sound, Enforced by mighty grace, Awaken many sinners round To come and fill the place!”
May the glad tidings of the gospel, accompanied by powerful grace, rouse many sinners nearby to come and fill this place.
Expresses the hope that the new venue will be a means of evangelism.