I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
John 14:6
Words: Benjamin Beddome (1717–1795). Published posthumously in Hymns Adapted to Public Worship (London: Burton & Briggs, 1818), number 401. Final Exclusion of Unbelievers.
Music: St. Crispin George J. Elvey, 1862 (🔊 pdf nwc).
Alternate Tunes:
If you know where to get a good picture of Beddome (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Can thoughtless sinners hope for Heav’n,
Can unbelievers dwell at ease?
No real ground of hope is giv’n,
No promise made to such as these.
Would they the gate celestial force?
A flaming sword shall guard the way;
Satan shall stop them in their course,
And eager seize his captive prey.
Heav’n from their vain attacks secure,
Shall still enjoy a settled peace;
Nor will a righteous God endure
Such daring rebels near His face.
Shut out from bliss, and bound in chains
Of heavy guilt, the traitors lie;
Deluged in wrath, enclosed in flames,
Dying they live, and living die.
Jesus, who art the Lord of all,
Oh let me Thy salvation see:
And when this earthly building fall,
Take my departing soul to Thee.