# Christmas explained — Olney Hymns > Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton. ## What happens This chapter celebrates the incarnation of Christ, emphasizing the joy and wonder of God becoming man. It reflects on the angels' song at Christ's birth, the honor bestowed upon humanity through Christ's sacrifice, and the anticipation of eternal rest and communion with God. The poems express praise, gratitude, and a deep sense of personal salvation through Jesus, while also acknowledging human weakness and the need for grace. ## Themes in this chapter ### Grace and Unmerited Favor The chapter highlights the unmerited favor of God in sending Christ to save sinners, emphasizing that salvation is a gift. ### Hope of Heaven and Eternal Life The poems express hope for eternal rest and the glorious hour when believers will see God and praise him forever. ## Character check-ins ### Jesus Christ Central figure of the chapter; celebrated as Emmanuel, the incarnate God, who became man to fulfill the law and suffer for sinners. ### Angels Angels sang at Christ's birth and are depicted as praising the Lamb, though humans have a unique reason to sing higher strains. ### The Narrator The speaker expresses personal devotion and gratitude, acknowledging unworthiness yet resolving to praise Christ. ### God Referred to as the Lord of all, the Almighty, and the object of praise; his providence and guidance are acknowledged. ## Key lines > Sweeter sounds than music knows Charm me in Emmanuel’s name; All her hopes my spirit owes To his birth and cross and shame. The name of Emmanuel is more delightful than any music, and my soul's hopes are entirely due to his birth, crucifixion, and humiliation. _The speaker expresses the profound joy and hope found in Christ's incarnation and sacrifice._ > Did the Lord a man become, That he might the law fulfill, Bleed and suffer in my room, And canst thou, my tongue, be still? The Lord became a man to obey the law and to bleed and suffer in my place; how can I remain silent? _Emphasizes the substitutionary atonement and the appropriate response of praise._ > As much, when in the manger laid, Almighty Ruler of the sky, As when the six days work he made Fill’d all the morning-stars with joy. He was just as much the Almighty Ruler of the universe when lying in the manger as when he created the world in six days, causing the morning stars to rejoice. _Affirms the deity of Christ even in his incarnation._ > They praise the Lamb who once was slain; But we can add a higher strain— Not only say “He suffer’d thus, But that “He suffer’d all for us.” Angels praise the slain Lamb, but we can sing a higher song—not just that he suffered, but that he suffered for us personally. _Highlights the unique privilege of redeemed sinners._ > Safely through another week God has brought us on our way; Let us now a blessing seek On th’ approaching Sabbath-day: Day of all the week the best, Emblem of eternal rest. God has safely guided us through another week; now we seek a blessing for the upcoming Sabbath, which is the best day of the week and a symbol of eternal rest. _Reflects on God's providence and the anticipation of heavenly rest._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/christmas - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters