We cannot be the heirs of grace By merits of self-right

Verse 1

We cannot be the heirs of grace By merits of self-righteousness; In all we do we cannot find That which subdews the carnal mind.

Verse 2

Though train'd and tutor'd by the law, We still remain in fear and awe; All we can think, or say or do Cannot create the heart anew.

Verse 3

It cannot make a foe a child, Nor yet to God be reconcil'd; That poison which remains within, will keep the mind enslav'd to sin.

Verse 4

But God had laid a better plan To save the helpless race of man, It was his only blessed son Could save, and none but him alone.

Verse 5

Thus when the time was all complete, The time the Lord himself had set; The Saviour came and shed his blood And died to make us heirs of God.