Zion, city of our God.
He whose Word cannot be broken
formed thee for His own abode.
On the Rock of Ages founded,
what can shake thy sure repose?
With salvation's walls surrounded,
thou may'st smile at all thy foes.
2. See, the streams of living waters,
springing from eternal love,
well supply thy sons and daughters
and all fear of want remove.
Who can faint while such a river
ever flows their thirst to assuage?
Grace, which like the Lord, the Giver,
never fails from age to age.
3. 'Round each habitation hov'ring,
see the cloud and fire appear
for a glory and a cov'ring,
showing that the Lord is near.
Thus deriving from their banner
light by night and shade by day,
safe they feed upon the manna
which He gives them on their way.
4. Savior, since of Zion's city
I through grace a member am,
let the world deride or pity,
I will glory in Thy name.
Fading is the worldling's pleasures,
all his boasted pomp and show;
solid joys and lasting treasures
none but Zion's children know.
The hymn "Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken" has a fascinating story rooted in John Newton's transformative journey and his deep faith.
John Newton's Transformation
John Newton (1725–1807) was once a slave trader and sailor, living a life far removed from the ideals of Christian faith. However, after a series of life-changing events, including a near-fatal storm at sea in 1748, he experienced a spiritual awakening. This led him to abandon the slave trade and eventually become a minister and an advocate for abolition. Newton's personal transformation shaped his ministry and writings, including the hymns he composed.
The Writing of the Hymn
Newton co-wrote the famous hymnal Olney Hymns (1779) with poet William Cowper. "Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken" is one of the hymns included in this collection. The hymn reflects Newton’s deep love for Scripture and his ability to weave biblical imagery into poetry. It draws on passages like:
- Psalm 87:3: “Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God.”
- Isaiah 33:20-21: Describing the security and blessings of Zion.
- Exodus 13:21: Referring to God’s guidance through the pillar of fire.
Themes and Meaning
The hymn celebrates the church as God’s chosen city, Zion, using rich imagery to depict its glory, security, and divine foundation. It emphasizes themes like:
- God’s protection: "Whose walls salvation strong surround."
- Spiritual provision: Drawing water from the "rock," referencing God’s miraculous provision for Israel in the wilderness.
- Eternal hope: The hymn contrasts the transient nature of earthly life with the eternal stability of God’s promises.
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