Scripture Verse

I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6

Introduction

Words: Ben­ja­min Bed­dome (1717–1795). Pub­lished post­hu­mous­ly in Hymns Adapt­ed to Pub­lic Wor­ship (Lon­don: Bu­rton & Briggs, 1818), num­ber 401. Fi­nal Ex­clu­sion of Un­be­liev­ers.

Music: St. Cris­pin George J. El­vey, 1862 (🔊 pdf nwc).

Alternate Tunes:

If you know where to get a good pic­ture of Bed­dome (head & shoul­ders, at least 200×300 pix­els),

portrait
George J. Elvey
1816–1893
National Portrait Gallery

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Lyrics

Can thoughtless sinners hope for Heav’n?
Can unbelievers dwell at ease?
No real ground of hope is giv’n,
No promise made to such as these.

Would they the gate celestial force?
A flaming sword shall guard the way:
Satan shall stop them in their course,
And eager seize his captive prey.

Heav’n from their vain attacks secure,
Shall still enjoy a settled peace:
Nor will a righteous God endure
Such daring rebels near His face.

Shut out from bliss, and bound in chains
Of heavy guilt, the traitors lie:
Deluged in wrath, enclosed in flames,
Dying they live, and living die.

Jesus, who art the Lord of all,
Oh let me Thy salvation see:
And when this earthly building fall,
Take my departing soul to Thee.