“To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.” Ephesians 3:8 ESV
The unsearchable riches of Christ! To the very least, grace is given to preach of these riches. To the least of the least, grace is given to learn and receive such riches, as to be called “unsearchable.” How can it be?
In one of my favourite “Easter” hymns (which is certainly appropriate on any given day of the year), Charles Wesley struggles with this paradox. Why should I gain from Christ’s death? Me, who by my nature, caused His pain? How can it be?
Sometimes, the intensity and theology of the older songs are overlooked with a glance. So, I spaced the verses apart for easier viewing. Take your time and read each verse. Meditate on the magnificent riches we’ve gained through Jesus’ sacrifice of Himself.
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And Can it Be?
by Charles Wesley
And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Savior’s blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain-
For me, who Him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
He left His Father’s throne above
So free, so infinite His grace-
Emptied Himself of all but love,
And bled for Adam’s helpless race:
‘Tis mercy all, immense and free,
For O my God, it found out me!
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Long my imprisoned spirit lay,
Fast bound in sin and nature’s night;
Thine eye diffused a quickening ray-
I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;
My chains fell off, my heart was free,
I rose, went forth, and followed Thee!
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
No condemnation now I dread;
Jesus, and all in Him, is mine;
Alive in Him, my living Head,
And clothed in righteousness divine,
Bold I approach th’eternal throne,
And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
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Love, mercy, freedom, righteousness, eternal life. These are ours in abundance because Jesus emptied Himself of all but Love, for Adam’s helpless race….Us…Me.
A beautiful version of this song is uploaded in the Blue Music Box to the right, from Together For the Gospel, an album recorded and produced by Sovereign Grace Music. Worship in awe, and wonder…how can it be?
