Hymns for Today's Church (2nd ed.) ‎#588

588. And can it be that I should gain

1 And can it be that I should gain
an interest in the Saviour'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?

2 'Tis mystery all! — the Immortal dies, —
who can explore his strange design?
In vain the first-born seraph tries
to sound the depths of love divine!
'Tis mercy all - Let earth adore;
let angel minds inquire no more.

3 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.

4 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 out, and followed thee.

5 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 the eternal throne
and claim the crown through Christ my own.

Text Information

• First Line: And can it be that I should gain
• Author: C. Wesley (1707-1788)
• Meter: 8 8 8 8 8 8 extended
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1987
• Topic: God's Church: Doxology, Glory to God
• Notes: See also revised version, 452

Tune Information

• Name: SAGINA
• Meter: 8 8 8 8 8 8 extended
• Key: G Major
• Source: T. Campbell's Bouquet 1825