A Collection of Hymns and Prayers, for Public and Private Worship ‎#336

336. The Invitation of a Gospel Ministry from Christ

1 Father of mercies, in thy house
Smile on our homage and our vows;
While with a grateful heart we share
These pledges of our Savior's care.

2 The Savior, when to heaven he rose
In splendid triumph o'er his foes,
Scatter'd his gifts on men below,
And wide his royal bounties flow.

3 Hence sprung th'Apostles' honor'd name:
Sacred beyond heroic fame;
In lowlier form to bless our eyes,
Pastors from hence, and teachers rise.

4 From Christ their varied gifts derive,
And fed by Christ their graces live;
While guarded by his potent hand,
'Midst all the rage of hell they stand.

5 So shall the bright succession run
Through the last courses of the sun;
While unborn churches by their care
Shall rise and flourish large and fair.

6 Jesus our Lord their hearts shall know,
The spring whence all these blessing flow;
Pastors and people shout his praise
Through the long round of endless days.

Text Information

• First Line: Father of mercies, in thy house
• Title: The Invitation of a Gospel Ministry from Christ
• Meter: L. M.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1845
• Scripture:
  Ephesians 4:8
  ;
  Ephesians 4:11-12
• Topic: The Church: Pastoral
• Notes: Now Public Domain.

Tune Information

(No tune information)