Blest be the Tie That Binds - Hymn Lyrics

1 Blest be the tie that binds
our hearts in Christian love;
the fellowship of kindred minds
is like to that above.

2 Before our Father's throne
we pour our ardent prayers;
our fears, our hopes, our aims are one,
our comforts and our cares.

3 We share our mutual woes,
our mutual burdens bear,
and often for each other flows
the sympathizing tear.

4 When we are called to part,
it gives us inward pain;
but we shall still be joined in heart,
and hope to meet again.

5 This glorious hope revives
our courage by the way;
while each in expectation lives
and waits to see the day.

6 From sorrow, toil, and pain,
and sin, we shall be free;
and perfect love and friendship reign
through all eternity.

Blest Be the Tie That Binds" is a well-loved Christian hymn, known for its simple yet profound expression of Christian fellowship and unity. Here's some information about it:

Lyrics

The hymn emphasizes the spiritual bond shared among believers and the mutual support and love that should characterize their relationships. The first stanza reads:

Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.

Other verses reflect themes of shared joys, burdens, and the eternal hope believers have in Christ.

Background

• Author: The hymn was written by John Fawcett in 1782. Fawcett was a Baptist minister in England, known for his humility and dedication to his congregation.
• Music: The tune most commonly associated with the hymn is "Dennis", composed by Hans G. Nägeli, a Swiss musician. It was adapted by Lowell Mason, an influential figure in American church music.

Historical Context

The hymn was reportedly inspired by a significant event in Fawcett's life. After accepting a position at a larger church in London, he and his wife decided to remain with their smaller, rural congregation due to their deep love for the people. This act of sacrifice and commitment to community is reflected in the hymn's themes.

Usage

"Blest Be the Tie That Binds" is often sung at the close of worship services, during fellowship gatherings, or at times of farewell. Its message of unity, love, and shared faith makes it a timeless favorite in many Christian traditions.

Scripture Reference:

Genesis 31:49

Psalm 133

Hosea 11:4

Matthew 11:30

Matthew 18:20

John 13:34-35

John 17:11

John 17:20-23

Acts 2:42-47

Acts 4:32-35

Acts 20:37-38

Romans 1:8-15

Romans 12:1-21

Romans 15:1-2

1 Corinthians 12:12-31

1 Corinthians 15:35-58

2 Corinthians 1:2-11

Galatians 3

Galatians 6

Ephesians 4:1-24

Ephesians 4:32

Philippians 1:3-11

Philippians 2:1-2

Philippians 2:11

Colossians 1:3-4

Colossians 2:2-3

Colossians 3:1-11

Colossians 3:13-15

1 Thessalonians 2:1-8

1 Thessalonians 3:11-13

1 Thessalonians 5:11

2 Thessalonians 3:11-13

Hebrews 4:16

Hebrews 12:1-2

Hebrews 12:23

Hebrews 13:1

1 Peter 3:8

1 John 1:7

1 John 3-4

Revelation 7:17

Revelation 21:4

2 Esdras 2:30-48