Olney Hymns · Chapter
A Friend That Sticketh Closer Than a Brother explained
This hymn celebrates Jesus Christ as the truest and most faithful friend, whose love surpasses that of any earthly brother.
What happens
This hymn celebrates Jesus Christ as the truest and most faithful friend, whose love surpasses that of any earthly brother. It contrasts human friends who may fail or forget, with Jesus who shed his blood for our reconciliation, remains constant despite our failings, and will love us eternally.
Themes in this chapter
Grace and Unmerited Favor
Jesus's love is described as costly, free, and without end, given despite our ill treatment, highlighting unmerited favor.
Redemption and Salvation
Jesus died to reconcile us to God, demonstrating boundless love and securing our salvation.
Characters to notice
- Jesus Christ
Portrayed as the ultimate friend who died for sinners, remains faithful despite rejection, and will love believers eternally.
- The Narrator
The speaker reflects on the surpassing love of Jesus and confesses human forgetfulness, longing for grace to love as we ought.
Key passages
“One there is, above all others, Well deserves the name of Friend!”
There is one who stands above all others and truly merits the title of Friend.
The opening line establishes Jesus as the supreme friend.
“But our Jesus died to have us Reconciled in him to God:”
Jesus died so that we might be brought back into right relationship with God through him.
Highlights the sacrificial death of Christ for reconciliation.
“Still he calls them brethren, friends, And to all their wants attends.”
He continues to call them brothers and friends, and he cares for all their needs.
Emphasizes Jesus's ongoing care and identification with believers.