A boundless and fathomless flood;
Launch out in the deep, cut away the shore line,
And be lost in the fullness of God.
Refrain:
Launch out into the deep,
O, let the shore line go,
Launch out, launch out in the ocean divine,
Out where the full tides flow.
2. But many, alas! only stand on the shore
And gaze on the ocean so wide;
They never have ventured its depths to explore,
Or to launch on the fathomless tide. [Refrain]
3. And others just venture away from the land,
And linger so near to the shore,
That the surf and the slime that beat over the strand,
Dash o'er them in floods evermore. [Refrain]
4. O let us launch out on this ocean so broad,
Where the floods of salvation e’er flow;
O, let us be lost in the mercy of God,
Till the depths of His fullness we know. [Refrain]
The hymn "The Mercy of God Is an Ocean Divine" was written by Albert B. Simpson in 1891. Simpson was a Canadian preacher, theologian, and founder of the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination. His writings and hymns often emphasized the deep and boundless mercy of God, a theme that resonates throughout this particular hymn.
The lyrics of the hymn use the metaphor of the ocean to describe God's mercy, portraying it as vast, unfathomable, and inviting believers to "launch out into the deep" of God's grace. The hymn's structure includes a refrain that encourages believers to move beyond the safety of the shore, symbolizing a call to deeper faith and trust in God's mercy.
The music for the hymn was composed by Russell K. Carter, a 19th-century American composer and hymn writer. Carter is also known for composing the tune "Standing on the Promises." The combination of Simpson's evocative lyrics and Carter's melody has made this hymn a cherished part of Christian worship, particularly in traditions that emphasize the themes of God's mercy and grace.
The hymn has been included in various hymnals and is often sung in worship services that focus on God's mercy and the call to deeper discipleship. Its enduring popularity speaks to the timeless message of God's boundless love and forgiveness.
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