The Divine Institution

Verse 1

The Saviour, when to heaven He rose, In splendid triumph o'er His foes, Scattered His gifts on men below, And wide His royal bounties flow.

Verse 2

Hence sprung the Apostles' honoured name; Sacred beyond heroic fame; In lowlier forms before our eyes, Pastors from hence, and teachers rise.

Verse 3

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

Verse 4

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.

Verse 5

Jesus, now teach our hearts to know The spring whence all these blessings flow; Pastors and people shout Thy praise Through the long round of endless days.