Olney Hymns · Question
How does Olney Hymns develop the theme of Grace and Unmerited Favor?
Answer
Olney Hymns by John Newton develops Grace and Unmerited Favor across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Salvation and all spiritual blessings are attributed to God's sovereign, unmerited grace, which transforms sinners, sustains believers, and is the foundation of all hope.
The believer's salvation and ongoing strength are attributed to God's grace, not human merit.
God's grace forgives Adam's guilt without being asked, and enables faith.
Contrasts Cain's self-righteousness with the grace of God, which alone can change the heart and is typified by the Redeemer's blood.
Evidence in the book
- Book I: On Select Texts of Scripture
The believer's salvation and ongoing strength are attributed to God's grace, not human merit.
- Adam
God's grace forgives Adam's guilt without being asked, and enables faith.
- Cain and Abel
Contrasts Cain's self-righteousness with the grace of God, which alone can change the heart and is typified by the Redeemer's blood.
- 5: Lot in Sodom
Mercy plucked Lot by the hand, showing God's grace in saving him despite his lingering.
- Esau
The speaker acknowledges being no better than Esau, yet receives pardon and heaven, attributing all praise to the Saviour.
- Jacob's Ladder
The gospel throne of grace accessible to believers, and the unmerited favor of God in claiming Jacob and believers as his own.
- My Name Is Jacob
The speaker acknowledges his past rebellion and sin, yet relies on God's mercy and grace to sustain him.
- Plenty in the Time of Dearth
The poem emphasizes the abundance of grace available in Christ, who provides for the needy despite their unworthiness.
