Olney Hymns · Chapter
III: Conflict explained
This chapter explores the theme of spiritual conflict, depicting the believer's struggles with sin, temptation, and affliction, while emphasizing trust in God's providence and the sustaining grace of Christ.
What happens
This chapter explores the theme of spiritual conflict, depicting the believer's struggles with sin, temptation, and affliction, while emphasizing trust in God's providence and the sustaining grace of Christ. The poems collectively portray a journey through trials, doubts, and fears, yet affirm the ultimate victory and peace found in faith.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Affliction
The chapter extensively portrays trials, crosses, and chastisement as means of sanctification and deeper reliance on God.
Divine Providence and Guidance
God's mysterious but sovereign workings are highlighted, with the assurance that He interprets His own ways and leads His people through storms.
Faith and Trust in Christ
Amidst conflict, the poems call for unwavering trust in Christ's advocacy and promises, rejecting unbelief.
Characters to notice
- The Narrator
The speaker throughout the poems expresses personal struggles, doubts, and reliance on God.
- Jesus Christ
Referred to as Saviour, Advocate, and the one who pleads on behalf of the sinner.
- God
Depicted as the sovereign mover, chastening Father, and prayer-hearing God.
- Satan
Mentioned as the adversary who taunts and tempts the believer.
- The Holy Spirit
Implied in the work of conviction and comfort, though not explicitly named.
Key passages
“Behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face.”
Even when God's dealings appear harsh, His underlying disposition toward His people is benevolent.
This line from 'Light Shining Out of Darkness' encapsulates the theme of trusting God's hidden goodness.
“Trials make the promise sweet; Trials give new life to pray'r; Trials bring me to his feet, Lay me low and keep me there.”
Afflictions enhance the value of God's promises, invigorate prayer, and humble the believer before God.
From 'Welcome Cross', this emphasizes the sanctifying purpose of trials.
“But a pray'r-hearing, answ'ring God, Supports me under every load.”
The knowledge that God hears and answers prayer provides strength to endure any burden.
From 'Looking Upwards in a Storm', this affirms the believer's confidence in God's responsiveness.
“With Christ in the vessel, I smile at the storm.”
Because Christ is present, the believer can face life's storms with confidence and peace.
From 'I Will Trust and Not Be Afraid', this line captures the essence of faith amid conflict.