# A Welcome to Christian Friends explained — Olney Hymns

> Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/70-a-welcome-to-christian-friends
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters