Methodist Hymn and Tune Book ‎#36

36. There's a wideness in God's mercy

1. There's a wideness in God's mercy,
Like the wideness of the sea;
There's a kindness in His justice,
Which is more than liberty.

2. There is no place where earth's sorrows
Are more felt than up in heaven;
There is no place where earth's failings
Have such kindly judgment given.

3. There is welcome for the sinner,
And more graces for the good;
There is mercy with the Saviour;
There is healing in His blood.

4. For the love of God is broader
Than the measure of man's mind;
And the heart of the Eternal
Is most wonderfully kind.

5. There is plentiful redemption
In the blood that has been shed,
There is joy for all the members
In the sorrows of the Head.

6. If our love were but more simple,
We should take Him at His word,
And our lives would be all sunshine
In the favour of our Lord.

In many editions the hymn begins with the following stanzas:

Was there ever kindest shepherd
Half so gentle, half so sweet,
As the Saviour who would have us
Come and gather round His feet?

Souls of men, why will ye scatter
Like a crowd of frightened sheep?
Foolish hearts, why will ye wander
From a love so true and deep?

Text Information

• First Line: There's a wideness in God's mercy
• Author: Dr. F. W. Faber, 1814-1863
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1917
• Topic: The Godhead: Adoration and Praise; Grace: Restoring; God: Mercy of; God: Love of; Welcome in Christ; Mercy of God; Love: To God; Sinners: Welcomed; Love: Of God; Kindness: Of God

Tune Information

• Name: NEWTON FERNS
• Composer: Samuel Smith, 1821-
• Meter: 8.7.8.7
• Key: F Major or modal