"A Form of Words"

A hymn written by Joseph Hart. (in common meter)

For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. - 1 Corinthians 4:20

1. A form of words, though e’er so sound,
Can never save a soul;
The Holy Ghost must give the wound,
And make the wounded whole.

2. Though God’s election is a truth,
Small comfort there I see,
Till I am told by God’s own mouth,
That he has chosen me.

3. [Sinners, I read, are justified
By faith in Jesus’ blood;
But when to me that blood’s applied,
’Tis then it does me good.]

4. [To perseverance I agree;
The thing to me is clear;
Because the Lord has promised me
That I shall persevere.]

5. [Imputed righteousness I own
A doctrine most divine;
For Jesus to my heart makes known
That all his merit’s mine.]

6. That Christ is God I can avouch,
And for his people cares,
Since I have prayed to him as such,
And he has heard my prayers.

7. That sinners, black as hell, by Christ
Are saved, I know full well;
For I his mercy have not miss'd,
And I am black as hell.

8. Thus, Christians, glorify the Lord;
His Spirit joins with ours,
In bearing witness to his word,
With all its saving powers.