# A Friend That Sticketh Closer Than a Brother explained — Olney Hymns

> Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/53-a-friend-that-sticketh-closer-than-a-brother
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters