Olney Hymns · Character
Jesus Christ
The Saviour whose name turns every spot to holy ground, he is the ladder between heaven and earth and the healer of deep-wounded souls.
major
Also known as Christ, Jesus, Lord Jesus, Saviour, Emmanuel, Mighty Jesus, Jesu
First appearance: Olney Hymns
As a major figure in Olney Hymns, Jesus Christ is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.
Central figure in the hymns, portrayed as the Redeemer, Shepherd, and Bridegroom, offering salvation and guidance.
Free preview opens at this moment — character cards, Character Web, and themes sit beside the text as you read.
In these hymns Jesus is the constant companion of the believer's pilgrimage — guide, guard, and friend who speaks cordially when the spirit faints. Yet he is also the Emmanuel whose healing touch is sought with…
In these hymns Jesus is the constant companion of the believer's pilgrimage — guide, guard, and friend who speaks cordially when the spirit faints. Yet he is also the Emmanuel whose healing touch is sought with trembling, mixed faith, and unspoken misgivings. His dual role as intimate walker and sovereign Lord shapes the collection's central tension: how frail sinners dare approach so great a Saviour.
Continue beside the text
The fuller portrait of Jesus Christ sits in Reading Lens — open the free preview to keep reading with notes on the page.
See Jesus Christ in Olney HymnsCharacter Web
67 connectionsA slice of how Jesus Christ sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- Protagonist
- Divine Judgment and Mercy
+62 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The emotional peak occurs in stanza V, where the speaker’s hope is violently extinguished as Satan obscures ev…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingRelationships
- Sin
rivalry · negative
Jesus battles and overcomes sin, offering deliverance from its power and guilt. How this plays out →
- Satan
rivalry · negative
- The Lord
family · positive
- The Waiting Soul
friendship · positive
- The Rich Man
rivalry · negative
- Adam
rivalry · ambivalent
- Elijah
professional · positive
- Sin
rivalry · negative
Jesus battles and overcomes sin, offering deliverance from its power and guilt. How this plays out →
- Satan
rivalry · negative
- The Waiting Soul
friendship · positive
- The Lord
family · positive
- Elijah
professional · positive
Sin
Jesus battles and overcomes sin, offering deliverance from its power and guilt.
Satan
Jesus and Satan are direct opponents, with Jesus defeating Satan's schemes and claiming victory over evil.
The Lord
Jesus and the Lord are often interchangeable titles for the same divine being, emphasizing unity and authority.
The Waiting Soul
Jesus is the object of the waiting soul's hope and the source of its eventual comfort and salvation.
The Rich Man
Jesus challenges the rich man's priorities, exposing the emptiness of material wealth without faith.
Adam
Adam's disobedience brought death, while Jesus' obedience brings life, contrasting the first and second Adam.
Elijah
Elijah is a forerunner and type of Christ, sharing prophetic roles and miraculous power, but subordinate to Jesus.
Sin
Jesus battles and overcomes sin, offering deliverance from its power and guilt.
Satan
Jesus and Satan are direct opponents, with Jesus defeating Satan's schemes and claiming victory over evil.
The Waiting Soul
Jesus is the object of the waiting soul's hope and the source of its eventual comfort and salvation.
The Lord
Jesus and the Lord are often interchangeable titles for the same divine being, emphasizing unity and authority.
Elijah
Elijah is a forerunner and type of Christ, sharing prophetic roles and miraculous power, but subordinate to Jesus.
Relationship notes
How these ties play out is in the reading companion — open the free preview.
See Jesus Christ in Olney HymnsIn the story
Jesus Christ appears across 281 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
- Olney Hymns
- Book I: On Select Texts of Scripture
- Adam
- Cain and Abel
- Walking with God
- Another
- 7: The Lord Will Provide
- Esau
- +273 more
Olney Hymns
Central figure in the hymns, portrayed as the Redeemer, Shepherd, and Bridegroom, offering salvation and guidance.
Book I: On Select Texts of Scripture
Referred to as the Friend who died for sinners, the Saviour who provides righteousness and peace.
Adam
The promised Seed who brings salvation and pardon.
Cain and Abel
Typified by the sacrifice ordained by God; His blood cries out for better things than Abel's, obtaining peace for His murderers.
Walking with God
Referred to as 'the Lamb' and 'the Lord,' the object of the soul's desire and the destination of the spiritual journey.
Another
The object of faith through whom the speaker walks with God.
7: The Lord Will Provide
Mentioned as the Saviour whose great name we have known, and as Christ on our side giving comfort.
Esau
The Saviour is addressed as the one who grants the blessing and birthright despite the speaker's unworthiness.
Jacob's Ladder
Described as the one who unites heaven and earth by taking on flesh, enabling believers to ascend to God.
Plenty in the Time of Dearth
The one to whom the speaker turns in times of spiritual famine, described as having an unbounded store of grace.
Joseph Made Known to His Brethren
Jesus is portrayed as the antitype of Joseph, who, though sold and slain, forgives and redeems sinners.
The Bitter Waters
The Saviour whose death on the cross is the healing tree that sweetens bitter afflictions.
Jehovah-Rophi—I Am the Lord That Healeth Thee
Addressed as Emmanuel and Saviour, the healer to whom the wounded souls repair.
The Golden Calf
Christ is referenced as the one who bought believers with his blood.
The True Aaron
The true and greater Priest who pleads above the skies, bearing the names of His saints and offering His own blood and prayers.
Gibeon
Emblem of the Saviour's grace; invites sinners to seek his face and grants peace to those who humbly come.
Jehovah-Shalem—The Lord Send Peace
His blood satisfies the law's demand and reconciles God to man.
Gideon's Fleece
The Saviour to whom the poem prays for the refreshing dew of grace.
24: Samson's Lion
Described as the believer's shield and the source of the honey (spiritual blessings) sent through trials.
Hannah; or the Throne of Grace
Jesus is depicted as the one who will chase away troubles by shining from the throne of grace.
The Milch Kine Drawing the Ark: Faith’s Surrender of All
Jesus is portrayed as the guide whose blood was shed to make believers His own, and as the matchless Friend.
Saul's Armour
The name of Jesus is the powerful weapon that causes Satan to tremble.
Is This Thy Kindness to Thy Friend?
The rich, almighty Friend who ransoms from hell, controls foes, and promises enthronement in heaven.
Ask What I Shall Give Thee
The one who loves to answer prayer, invites the soul to pray, and is asked to take possession of the heart and reign without rival.
Another
Referred to as the Saviour whose love kindles love in return, and whose presence and image are sought.
Another
Shows a smiling face at the throne of grace and waits to answer prayer; his atoning blood provides an all-prevailing plea.
Queen of Sheba
The greater Solomon, whose wisdom and love surpass all human understanding.
The Meal and Cruse of Oil
Referred to as the Friend of the poor, providing for their needs.
Naaman
The spiritual counterpart to Elisha, to whom the speaker comes for cleansing from sin.
More with Us Than with Them
The one who lives to make good the promise sealed with blood, ensuring the believer's safety.
The Joy of the Lord Is Your Strength
A bleeding Saviour seen by faith is the source of heavenly joy and peace.
Oh That I Were as in Months Past!
The Saviour whose pardoning blood and smiles were once experienced, now perceived as hiding his face.
The Change
Invoked as the Saviour who can revive the soul, heal the wounded spirit, and silence the foe.
Pleading for Mercy
The one who comes to cheer the heart and is the source of hope and salvation.
None Upon Earth I Desire Besides Thee
The central figure whose presence brings joy and meaning; the speaker's sun and song.
The Believer’s Safety
Referred to as 'Incarnate God' and 'the angels' Lord,' He is the protector and Savior of believers.
Another
The source of redemption and protection, always near to help in times of trial.
What Shall I Render?
The Redeemer from whose hands mercies are received daily.
Dwelling in Mesech
The Saviour who speaks comfort to the mourning soul and promises joy and the crown.
Wisdom
Referred to as the one who died for sinners, the voice that speaks in thunder, and the embodiment of divine love.
A Friend That Sticketh Closer Than a Brother
Portrayed as the ultimate friend who died for sinners, remains faithful despite rejection, and will love believers eternally.
Vanity of the World
The one in whose charms believers are to delight for salvation.
The Name of Jesus
The central figure; His name is sweet, soothing, healing, and a source of grace and acceptance.
O Lord, I Will Praise Thee
Become the believer's salvation and strength, the source of praise.
The Refuge, River, and Rock of the Church
Known on earth as man, now reigning as God of glory; the refuge, river, and rock for His saints.
Zion; or the City of God.
The Redeemer whose blood washes the inhabitants of Zion, making them kings and priests to God.
Look Unto Me, and Be Ye Saved
The speaker of the invitation, presenting Himself as the antitype of the brazen serpent, offering life, peace, and full salvation to sinners.
The Good Physician
The Good Physician who heals the sin-sick soul, gives sight, and saves from death.
To the Afflicted, Tossed with Tempests, and Not Comforted
The Saviour speaks directly to the afflicted heart, offering comfort and assurance.
The Lord Is My Portion
The believer's portion, who rules heaven and earth, gives Himself to the believer, pleads in heaven, and preserves on earth.
Humbled and Silenced by Mercy
Passed by the speaker in their blood, bade them live, spoke kindly, paid their debt, broke their yoke, and called them to forsake idols.
Jehovah-Shammah
His incarnate Son, whose blood founded Jerusalem.
Belshazzar
Presented as the one who answers the law's demands and cancels it with his blood.
Prayer for the Lord’s Promised Presence
Addressed as the Son of God and gracious leader, whose promised return is eagerly awaited.
A Brand Plucked Out of the Fire
The gracious Saviour who appears in majesty, rebukes Satan, removes the filthy garments, and clothes the sinner in His righteousness.
On One Stone Shall Be Seven Eyes
The central figure, described as the Stone appointed by God, the Lord's Anointed, who spilt His blood for sinners and is the foundation of the church.
Praise for the Fountain Opened
Referred to as Emmanuel and the dying Lamb, whose blood forms the fountain of cleansing.
They Shall Be Mine, Saith the Lord
The Savior who will descend from the sky to collect His jewels and show them care and favor.
The Beggar
Implied as the source of the word of promise and the gracious ear that hears the beggar's plea.
The Leper
The Savior who passes by, hears the leper's cry, and pronounces the healing word, demonstrating both power and love.
A Sick Soul
Addressed as the Physician of the sin-sick soul, the only source of healing and grace.
Satan Returning
Claims the sinner's heart and must dwell and reign within the mind to prevent Satan's return.
The Wheat and Tares
The one who will weed the crop and pluck the tares in anger.
Peter Walking Upon the Water
Calms the sea, comes to Peter on the waves, gives peace, and rescues Peter when he sinks.
The Woman of Canaan
Initially silent to the woman's plea, then tests her faith, and finally grants her request, revealing his heart.
What Think Ye of Christ?
The central figure of the chapter, whose true identity and role are the subject of the test.
The Foolish Virgins
Christ is the Bridegroom who pronounces judgment, saying 'Depart, your doom is fix'd' to those who were not truly known by Him.
Peter Sinning and Repenting
Jesus' loving look toward Peter after the denial is the instrument of Peter's repentance.
The Legion Dispossessed
The Physician who heals the possessed man, commanding the demons to flee and granting peace and forgiveness.
The Ruler's Daughter Raised
He responds graciously to the ruler's late plea, heals the daughter, and rebukes fear with a promise of restoration.
But One Loaf
The Saviour who warns against the leaven of the Pharisees and miraculously fed the multitude.
Bartimeus
The gracious Saviour who heals Bartimeus and is followed by him.
The Blasted Fig-Tree
Spoke the awful word that blasted the fig tree, using it as a warning to believers.
The Two Debtors
Receives the woman's devotion, forgives her sins, and teaches Simon through the parable of the two debtors.
The Good Samaritan
Portrayed as the Good Samaritan who pities and heals the fallen sinner.
Martha and Mary
The guest who commends Mary's choice and rebukes Martha's anxiety.
The Heart Taken
Stronger than Satan, He appears to set His people free and claims the heart He bought with His blood.
The Worldling
The Lord who pronounces the worldling's doom and is the Saviour who makes believers wise.
The Barren Fig-Tree
The under gardener who intercedes for the barren fig tree, pleading for another year of grace.
The Prodigal Son
The Lord whose love is compared to the father's, welcoming all who come to Him.
The Importunate Widow
The Lord who knows the heart of every saint and invites us to pray and never faint. He bows his gracious ear and will help his chosen from on high.
Zaccheus
Called Zaccheus by name, revealing his divine knowledge and grace.
108: The Believer’s Danger, Safety, and Duty
The Saviour who warns Simon and intercedes for believers, ensuring faith prevails.
109: Father, Forgive Them
The Saviour who prays for forgiveness for his crucifiers, demonstrating divine love and atonement.
The Two Malefactors
Crucified between two transgressors; responds to the penitent thief with a promise of paradise.
The Woman of Samaria
Portrayed as the weary traveler at the well who offers the living water, revealing His divine identity and grace.
The Pool of Bethesda
The one who can heal and is full of grace, who will not let a seeking soul perish.
Another
Invoked as the dear Saviour who must interpose to overcome stubborn wills and make grace effective.
The Disciples at Sea
Though absent from the disciples' boat, He spends the night in prayer for them and later comes to them, calming the sea and bringing them safely to port.
Will Ye Also Go Away?
The Saviour who asks the question and is recognized as the Christ of God with eternal life.
The Resurrection and the Life
Declared as the glorious head, the resurrection and the life, and the one who awakens sinners and preserves the faithful.
Weeping Mary
Jesus appears to Mary, though unrecognized at first, and speaks to her, turning her sorrow into joy.
Lovest Thou Me?
The speaker who addresses the soul with the question 'Lovest thou me?' and recounts His saving deeds.
The Death of Stephen
The glorious Lord who appears to Stephen in a vision, giving him strength and peace.
The Rebel’s Surrender to Grace.–Lord, What Wilt Thou Have Me to Do?
The bleeding Savior whose love and sacrifice conquer the rebel's heart.
Peter Released from Prison
Depicted as the one who awakens sinners from their sleep of guilt and grants them liberty.
The Trembling Gaoler
The object of faith for salvation; his death provides redemption and his wounds plead for forgiveness.
The Exorcists
His name, when pronounced by faith, is powerful over Satan, sin, and death.
Paul's Voyage
The God whom Paul adored, who saves in time of need and lives to save believers.
The Good That I Would Do, I Do Not
Implored to soften the stony heart and provide the strength to do good.
Salvation Drawing Nearer
Referred to as 'Jacob's Star' and 'our Lord,' whose appearance heralds eternal day and whose judgment sinners must face.
That Rock Was Christ
Prefigured by the smitten rock; His pierced side streams blessings; He endured the wrath of God and poured forth streams of blood.
My Grace Is Sufficient for Thee
Christ's power is the source of strength and sufficiency for the believer.
The Inward Warfare
The Head in whom the speaker daily triumphs and the Saviour whose promise ensures final victory.
Contentment
The Saviour whose school teaches contentment, who speaks to the soul, compares His griefs with ours, appoints our lot, and promises grace and comfort.
Old Testament Gospel
Seen as the fulfillment of Old Testament types and figures, the Saviour whose face is revealed in the gospel.
The Word Quick and Powerful
The Word of Christ is described as sharper than a two-edged sword, piercing the sinner through.
Looking Unto Jesus
The central focus of the poem; the speaker looks to Him for strength, freedom from guilt, and victory over sin and Satan.
Ephesus
The speaker who holds the pastors in His hand and addresses the church of Ephesus.
Smyrna
The speaker of the message, described as the First and Last who lives though he died, encouraging the church to hold fast.
Sardis
Implied as the one speaking through the Spirit, warning the church and promising reward to the faithful.
Philadelphia
The Holy One and true, who holds the keys of heaven and hell, speaks to His faithful few.
Laodicea
The speaker who rebukes the Laodicean church with love, offering mercy and inviting repentance.
The Little Book
The Lord who makes the sweetness known and fixes believers for his own.
Book II: On Occasional Subjects
Referred to as the bread of life, the Saviour, Emmanuel, and the one who died for sinners.
I: Seasons
Central figure; the guide in youth, the glorious sun who brings spiritual spring, the Saviour who died for sinners, and the object of praise and trust.
New Year's Hymns
Mentioned as the Saviour whose love fills believers and who has paid the debt for sins.
Time How Swift
Implied as the Saviour whose love fills believers.
Time How Short
The Saviour who will wipe away tears and give the word for believers to depart.
A New-Year’s Thought and Prayer
Christ is presented as the one who has paid the believer's debt in full.
Earthly Prospects Deceitful
The Savior's voice calls sinners to repentance, offering grace and salvation.
Before Annual Sermons to Young People on New-Year’s Evenings
Referred to as the Saviour whose name is pleaded and whose dying love is revealed to wounded hearts.
Another
Mentioned as the one whom the youth are encouraged to love, emphasizing the importance of early faith.
Another
Implied as the Shepherd and the one whose dying love melts hearts of steel.
Casting the Gospel Net
Appears to Peter and is the Lord who commands the gospel net to be cast again.
Pleading for and with Youth
Restored the sinful race and brings sinners face to face with God's forgiveness.
Preaching to the Dry Bones
The Savior who commands the dry bones to live and forgives sinners.
God Speaking from Mount Zion
His blood speaks pardon and grace; he invites sinners to look to him and live.
After Sermons to Young People on New-Year’s Evenings, Suited to the Subjects
Referred to as 'David's Son and David's Lord,' the Savior who invites sinners, provides atonement, and is the source of grace and life.
David’s Charge to Solomon
Addressed as 'David's Son and David's Lord,' the eternal one who teaches youth to know His name.
The Lord’s Call to His Children
Referred to as 'God the Saviour' who speaks and invites sinners to look to Him as a bleeding Savior.
The Prayer of Jabez
Referred to as the one who bought us with his blood and makes our souls his care; he is the answerer of Jabez's prayer and the bearer of the cross.
Waiting at Wisdom's Gates
Invites sinners to his rest and is the source of wisdom and blessing.
Asking the Way to Zion
Referred to as the Savior who has his abode in Zion and as 'Jesus is the way'.
We Were Pharaoh’s Bondmen
The one who ransomed believers by price and power, breaking their fetters.
Travailing in Birth for Souls
The ultimate goal of ministry is that Christ be formed in sinners' hearts, and His dying love is the motivating force for preachers.
We Are Ambassadors for Christ
The one who sends ambassadors and will return in the clouds as judge.
Paul's Farewell Charge
The one who wipes away tears and ensures a joyful meeting in glory.
Winter
Invoked as the 'glorious sun' whose warmth can thaw the frozen heart and revive spiritual life.
Spring
The speaker pleads for the Savior to break through clouds and shine, and to help him believe and nourish spiritually.
Another
Called 'beloved Saviour,' the one who is asked to hasten and speak peace to the drooping soul.
Summer Storms
The 'wonder-working Lord' who soothes the tempest and is the object of the believer's longing for eternal noon.
Christmas
Central figure of the chapter; celebrated as Emmanuel, the incarnate God, who became man to fulfill the law and suffer for sinners.
Praise for the Incarnation
The central figure of praise; His incarnation, birth, cross, and shame are celebrated.
Jehovah-Jesus
Addressed as Jehovah-Jesus, the eternal God and Savior, who is worshipped for His divine nature and saving work.
Man Honoured Above Angels
The Lamb who was slain, who passed by angels to assume human flesh and now fills the throne of God as man.
Saturday Evening
Referred to as the 'dear Redeemer' through whom pardon and grace are sought.
The Close of the Year
Referred to as the Saviour and the one who sits on the throne, deserving praise.
Ebenezer
Addressed as the one on the throne to whom praise is brought; the source of salvation and the one who enables singing.
II: Ordinances
Central figure in the ordinances, the Lamb who is worshipped, the Shepherd who guides, and the one who died and reigns for believers.
Another
Addresses Jesus as the Shepherd of his chosen few, the one who meets with his people and is found wherever they seek him.
The Lord’s Day
The Saviour whom the saints meet in worship and whose grace they feast upon.
Another
The Savior who helps believers from the skies by His almighty hand, and whose smile compensates for all trials.
Prayer for Ministers
Referred to as the Chief Shepherd of the chosen sheep.
Prayer for a Revival
Addressed as the Savior who visits and revives the plantation, the dearest Savior who can make withered plants bloom again.
Hoping for a Revival
The Saviour speaks words of encouragement, assuring the speaker that the ark is His and that revival will come.
Sacramental Hymns
Central figure in all hymns; depicted as the bread and wine, the crucified Savior, and the risen Lord.
Welcome to the Table
Referred to as the bread and the Saviour who invites sinners to the feast.
Christ Crucified
The crucified Savior, whose suffering and death are the central focus, offering redemption and love.
Jesus Hasting to Suffer
Portrayed as hastening to Jerusalem, eager to be baptized with blood and reach the cross, driven by love and zeal.
It Is Good to Be Here
The crucified Savior whose blood atones for sin and whose dying word brings forgiveness.
Looking at the Cross
The crucified Savior who fixes his eyes on the speaker, first in judgment, then in forgiveness.
Supplies in the Wilderness
The bread of life and the source of spiritual nourishment.
Communion with the Saints in Glory
Referred to as the Lamb, who died and reigns, and whose worth is the subject of heavenly and earthly praise.
On the Scripture
The believer feeds on a dying Christ, who is meat and drink indeed.
The Light and Glory of the Word
The soul rejoices to pursue the steps of Him I love.
The Word More Precious Than Gold
The dying Christ is the believer's food and drink, the source of all spiritual sustenance.
Providences
Addressed as the Tender Shepherd and the Judge; the source of hope and salvation.
Fast Day Hymns
The Shepherd and Lord who shelters believers and is the focus of Christian fellowship.
67: The Hiding-Place. Feb. 10, 1779
Implied as the ark and the atoning blood that marks the faithful.
On the Earthquake. Sept. 8, 1775
Referred to as the Shepherd, Lord, and Chief who shelters believers from ill.
A Welcome to Christian Friends
The central figure of the hymn, whose name and works are the focus of Christian fellowship.
At Parting
Addressed as the Tender Shepherd of His sheep, asked to hear prayer and keep souls in safety.
Funeral Hymns
Central figure in the hymns, as the Savior who prepares a mansion for believers, the Judge at the final day, and the source of grace and salvation.
On the Death of a Believer
The Savior with whom the saints rest and whose name they praise on harps of gold.
On the Death of a Minister
The dear Redeemer who lives forever and provides a boundless store for His people.
The Tolling Bell
The speaker calls upon Jesus for help, seeking refuge and hope in Him, and desires His blood and Spirit to subdue sin.
Hope Beyond the Grave
The Savior who has prepared a mansion in the skies and is the object of faith.
There the Weary Are at Rest
Referred to as the Saviour who provides eternal life and gives strength for the battle.
The Day of Judgment
Appears as the Judge, clothed in majesty divine, who will own the faithful as His own and pronounce blessing on the righteous.
The Day of the Lord
Referred to as 'Jesus the Judge' who approaches nigh at the sound of the trumpet.
The Great Tribunal
The Judge who will hasten down in the vision; the one whose death is pleaded for salvation.
IV: Creation
The refuge and hope for sinners, the stone of Zion, and the one who draws sinners upward.
The Book of Creation
The Saviour's power, faithfulness, providence, and love are witnessed by all creatures.
Thunder
Referred to as reigning, bringing joy to believers amidst the thunder.
On the Eclipse of the Moon. July 30, 1776
Meditation on Christ's eclipse in Gethsemane, where he bore the people's guilt and was deprived of the light of God.
The Sea
Reveals His love, hears the prayer for salvation, and commands the tempest to cease, bringing peace.
The Flood
The only sure foundation, the Stone in Zion, on which sinners must ground their hope.
The Thaw
His blood shed for sinners is the means by which hatred, unbelief, and guilt melt away.
The Loadstone
The object of faith and the Savior whose love is imparted by the Holy Spirit and who draws sinners upward when lifted up.
The Bee Saved from the Spider
The pitying friend who saves the bee, breaking the spider's web and rescuing the soul from despair.
The Tamed Lion
The Saviour whose power is proclaimed by angels and whose cross subdues the fiercest hearts.
Sheep
Referred to as the Saviour who calls his people sheep and provides for their needs.
The Garden
The second Adam, who suffered in Gethsemane to free believers from the law.
For a Garden-Seat or Summer-House
Revealed as full of truth and grace, the hope, shield, rest, and hiding-place of the believer.
The World
The divine Savior who rescues the narrator from the shipwreck of worldly pursuits.
Book III: On the Rise, Progress, Changes, and Comforts of the Spiritual Life
Central figure as Redeemer, Advocate, and King; his sacrifice and intercession are celebrated.
I: Solemn Addresses to Sinners
Presented as the Savior who invites sinners to come, who died on the cross to shed His precious blood for their salvation, and who offers pardon and grace.
Expostulation
Presented as the refuge for sinners, whose mercy and blood provide salvation.
Alarm
Mentioned as the one who died for sinners and invites them to come, offering mercy and room for all.
We Were Once as You Are
Presented as the only source of true peace and freedom from sin and distress.
Invitation
The Savior who calls sinners, offers pardon, and shed His blood on the cross for their salvation.
II: Seeking, Pleading, and Hoping
The Savior who is invoked as the refuge and intercessor, whose blood and grace can cleanse the vilest sinner.
The Burdened Sinner
The Savior whom the sinner scorned but now calls upon for salvation.
Behold, I Am Vile
The speaker appeals to Christ's atoning blood and grace, believing it can cleanse the vilest sinner and soften a heart of stone.
Encouragement
The dying, risen Lord who answers prayer and grants immediate release from guilt to the vilest transgressor.
The Effort
Described as the one who answers prayer at the mercy-seat, who wept, bled, died, and now reigns with compassion.
The Effort-in Another Measure
Addressed as the one who answers prayer at the mercy-seat, invites burdened souls, and speaks words of promised grace.
Seeking the Beloved
Referred to as the Bridegroom of the soul, once a man of grief and shame, now enthroned and bearing the greatest name.
Rest for Weary Souls
Referred to as the ark of grace, the one who offers rest and receives all who come.
III: Conflict
Referred to as Saviour, Advocate, and the one who pleads on behalf of the sinner.
Welcome Cross
Referred to as the Savior whose power sanctifies every loss.
Temptation
Referred to as 'my Saviour', whom the speaker seeks through the floods despite the storm.
Looking Upwards in a Storm
The Advocate with the Father, whose intercession is the believer's privilege.
The Storm Is Hushed
Reveals his blood and righteousness, brings salvation, and secures the speaker's peace.
22: Help in the Time of Need
The almighty Friend who appears for relief and dispels the clouds of horror.
Rejoice the Soul of Thy Servant
The speaker addresses Christ as the one who died for sinners, desires to recline on His breast like John, and longs to see His glory as Peter did.
Bitter and Sweet
Addressed as Saviour and Lord, the source of divine love and grace.
Prayer for Patience
The one who suffered all for our peace and pardon, and whose example of patient endurance is the model for the speaker.
Why Should I Complain?
Referred to as 'my Saviour' and 'my Shepherd'; His presence brings peace, His withdrawal causes fear, and His constant faithfulness is the basis for hope.
Cast Down, but Not Destroyed
Revealed as the one who controls Satan's power, pleads for the believer's relief, and whose atoning blood provides access to God's mercy-seat.
The Benighted Traveler
Referred to as the light and Saviour whose presence brings cheer and safety, but whose absence leads to spiritual terror.
The Prisoner
The 'Dear Saviour' to whom the prisoner pleads for mercy, asking Him to break the gates and bars and set the prisoner free.
Perplexity Relieved
Referred to as 'my Saviour,' who brings aid and sets the speaker free.
I Will Trust and Not Be Afraid
Present as the Saviour who is near, the guide, and the one who suffered the bitter cup for sinners.
Questions to Unbelief
The object of the soul's flight for relief; His promise and providence are trusted; His precious blood is the ultimate assurance.
The Way of Access
The Saviour who stands between the sinner and God, pleading before the throne.
IV: Comfort
Central figure in the hymns, referred to as the source of comfort, healing, and salvation.
Faith a New and Comprehensive Sense
Faith views Jesus on the throne and smells the dear Redeemer's name.
The Happy Change
Referred to as the 'Sun of Righteousness' with healing in his wings, whose light alone can shine upon the heart.
Retirement
Referred to as 'My Saviour' and the harmonious name of the divine.
Jesus My All
Portrayed as the believer's tower, shield, living bread, righteousness, and intercessor.
The Hidden Life
The Saviour who listens to all wants, grants beyond asking, speaks with tenderness, and bears the cross; his name is like precious ointment.
True Pleasure
The speaker's soul springs with pleasure at hearing His name, and His easy yoke is loved.
The Christian
Referred to as the King of kings who maintains the Christian's heavenly birth and bestows the kingdom of eternal love.
Confidence
The speaker confides in Christ's intercession and death as the basis for forgiveness and plea.
Hear What He Has Done for My Soul!
The Redeemer who speaks to the sinner's heart, forgives sins, and saves from hell.
55: Freedom from Care
The sinner's Friend who promises to manage all, bear burdens, supply wants, and lead the believer.
Humiliation and Praise
His blood speaks pardon, grace, and peace to the wounded spirit; his love is far greater than any created being's; his righteousness is the believer's plea against Satan.
For the Poor
The Saviour whose love makes even the meanest fare sweet.
Home in View
The one with whom the believer will dwell in heaven and who wipes away tears.
V: Dedication and Surrender
Revealed as the one who sets free from earthly pleasures and whose love constrains to obedience.
Old Things Are Passed Away
Revealed to the speaker, causing earthly pleasures to fade.
The Power of Grace
The Savior whose name and sacrificial work are the foundation of the believer's new life.
My Soul Thirsteth for God
Referred to as Emmanuel; His wounds and cross are central to the speaker's transformation.
Love Constraining to Obedience
The Son in whom the believer is freely chosen and whose fulfillment of the law and pardoning voice transforms a slave into a child.
Hatred of Sin
The final vision of Jesus as He is will strike all sin dead.
True Happiness
The source of true happiness and excellence; the narrator's heart is fixed on Him and His love.
The Happy Debtor
The one who forgave the debt and washed it away, demonstrating love through His bleeding heart.
True and False Comforts
Referred to as the 'Saviour' whose voice true sheep hear, and as the speaker's 'All in All' at whose feet they find their ultimate joy and security.
True and False Zeal
The Savior whose name true zeal desires sinners to love, and who will appear to grant the best applause.
Abuse of the Gospel
Referred to as the 'dear Redeemer' who bled for sinners, and as the 'living head' of the saints.
Dependence
The source of grace and the one in whom believers find their store.
Not of Works
Mentioned as a slighted name when self is the god of the soul.
Sin's Deceit
The one whose cross, viewed by faith, reveals sin's true nature.
Are There Few That Shall Be Saved?
The living gate through which believers enter; the only way to salvation.
The Sluggard
Invoked as the Saviour who can awaken the spiritually sluggish.
Not in Word, but in Power
The Saviour whose gracious call transforms sinners and whose knowledge changes lions to lambs.
VII: Praise
Central figure of praise; Redeemer whose blood washes away sin and brings believers near to God.
Praise for Faith
Referred to as 'my Redeemer,' whose blood is the richest gift and whose merits are hidden from the blind.
Praise for Redeeming Love
The Savior who washed us with his blood and presents our souls to God.
I Will Praise the Lord at All Times
The Savior whose charms, grace, and sacrifice are seen in every season.
Perseverance
The source of strength and aid for every saint; He overcame and triumphed for believers.
Salvation
Left the courts above and died to save his own; now reigns enthroned as Advocate and Head.
Praise to the Redeemer
The Redeemer who laid aside glory, endured pains, died on the cross to pay for sin, and now pleads for believers before the throne.
Man by Nature, Grace, and Glory
Assumed our nature, obeyed and suffered in our place, and took it with him to his throne.
Short Hymns
Referred to as the Shepherd of the sheep, the Redeemer, and the one who opened the well of salvation.
Before Sermon
Mentioned as the source of living water, whose death opened the way to God's grace.
Chapter 94
The one who opened the well of salvation through his death, providing living water.
After Sermon
Referred to as the Shepherd of the sheep, our King and Head, and the Redeemer; the source of grace and the one who guards the way.
Habakkuk 3:17–18
The speaker affirms 'Jesus is mine!' as the foundation of their confidence.
Chapter 98
Guards the way through floods and flames; the Saviour who is the Lord.
Hebrews 13:20, 22
Referred to as the Shepherd of the sheep, King and Head, and the Redeemer who sealed the covenant with blood.
2 Corinthians 13:14
Invoked as the source of grace.
Chapter 102
Referred to as 'the Word' in the Trinitarian blessing.
Chapter 103
Invoked in the closing plea for His return: 'Lord Jesus, come.'
Gloria Patri
The Son who died for sinners and is worshipped alongside the Father and Spirit.
The Father We Adore
Referred to as the everlasting Son, part of the Trinity.
Hymn 105: To the Trinity
Referred to as 'Saviour, who hast us bought'
Chapter 106
Jesus is praised for dying for sinners.
Chapter 107
Second person of the Trinity, included in the doxology.
Chapter companion notes
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