What makes mistaken men afraid

Verse 1

What makes mistaken men afraid Of sovereign grace to preach! The reason is, if truth be said, Because they are so rich.

Verse 2

Why so offensive in their eyes Does God’s election seem? Because they think themselves so wise That they have chosen him.

Verse 3

Of perseverance why so loath Are some to speak or hear? Because, as masters over sloth, They vow to persevere.

Verse 4

Whence is imputed righteousness A point so little known? Because men think they all possess Some righteousness their own.

Verse 5

Not so the needy, helpless soul, Prefers his humble prayer; He looks to him that works the whole, And seeks his treasure there.

Verse 6

His language is, “Let me, my God, On sovereign grace rely; And own ’tis free, because bestowed On one so vile as I.

Verse 7

“Election! ’tis a word divine; For, Lord, I plainly see, Had not thy choice prevented mine, I ne’er had chosen thee.

Verse 8

“For perseverance strength I’ve none, But would on this depend – That Jesus, having loved his own, Will love them to the end.

Verse 9

“Empty and bare, I come to thee For righteousness divine; O may thy matchless merits be, By imputation, mine.”

Verse 10

Thus differ these; yet hoping each To make salvation sure. Now most men will approve the rich, But Christ has blessed the poor.