Olney Hymns · Chapter
A Welcome to Christian Friends explained
This hymn extends a warm welcome to fellow Christians, celebrating the shared joy of knowing the Savior.
What happens
This hymn extends a warm welcome to fellow Christians, celebrating the shared joy of knowing the Savior. It emphasizes the grace that unites believers, the hope of meeting in heaven, and the desire for the Holy Spirit's presence to make their fellowship sweet. The focus is on speaking of Christ—His life, death, and reign—and looking forward to the eternal day when believers will meet to part no more.
Themes in this chapter
Grace and Unmerited Favor
The hymn acknowledges that it is by grace that believers know the Savior's name and share in the hope of heaven.
Hope of Heaven and Eternal Life
The hymn looks forward to the glorious day when believers will meet in heaven and part no more.
Characters to notice
- Jesus Christ
The central figure of the hymn, whose name and works are the focus of Christian fellowship.
- The Holy Spirit
Invoked to send His presence and make the communication among believers sweet.
- The Saints
The 'Christian friends' who are welcomed and share in the joys of salvation.
Key passages
“Kindred in Christ, for his dear sake, A hearty welcome here receive;”
We who are family through Christ, welcome you warmly because of Him.
Emphasizes the spiritual kinship among believers.
“May he, by whose kind care we meet, Send his good Spirit from above, Make our communications sweet, And cause our hearts to burn with love!”
May the Lord who brought us together send His Holy Spirit to make our conversation pleasant and fill our hearts with love.
A prayer for the Spirit's presence in fellowship.
“We only wish to speak of Him Who lived and died and reigns for us.”
Our only desire is to talk about Jesus, who lived, died, and now rules for our benefit.
Focuses the conversation on Christ's work.
“And hasten on the glorious day When we shall meet to part no more.”
And eagerly await the wonderful day when we will gather together forever.
Expresses the hope of eternal reunion in heaven.