John Bakewell was a Wesleyan evangelist in the
eighteenth century. He was an associate of the
Wesleys, as well as Augustus M. Toplady, author of Rock
of Ages. Bakewell’s most famous hymn, this one, is
not quite as popular as Toplady’s, but it is itself a
great work. It describes Christ’s attributes,
pictures him in glory, and ends with a call to worship
Him. Somewhere along the way, he likely met Francois
H. Barthelemon, violinist and composer. Though
Barthelemon’s name looks French...(+)
John Bakewell was a Wesleyan evangelist in the
eighteenth century. He was an associate of the
Wesleys, as well as Augustus M. Toplady, author of Rock
of Ages. Bakewell’s most famous hymn, this one, is
not quite as popular as Toplady’s, but it is itself a
great work. It describes Christ’s attributes,
pictures him in glory, and ends with a call to worship
Him. Somewhere along the way, he likely met Francois
H. Barthelemon, violinist and composer. Though
Barthelemon’s name looks French (because it is), he
lived in England for a while. This tune is attributed
to him.
1. Hail, Thou once-despised Jesus!
Hail, Thou Galileean King!
Thou didst suffer to release us;
Thou didst free salvation bring.
Hail, Thou agonizing Savior,
Bearer of our sin and shame!
By Thy merits we find favor,
Life is given thru Thy name.
2. Paschal Lamb, by God appointed,
All our sins on Thee were laid;
By almighty love anointed,
Thou has full atonement made.
All Thy people are forgiven
Thru the virtue of Thy blood;
Opened is the gate of Heaven,
Peace is made ‘twixt man and God.
3. Jesus, hail! enthroned in glory,
There forever to abide;
All the heav’nly hosts adore Thee,
Seated at Thy Father’s side:
There for sinners Thou art pleading,
There Thou dost our place prepare,
Ever for us interceding
Till in glory we appear.
4. Worship, honor, pow’r and blessing
Thou art worth to receive;
Loudest praises, without ceasing,
Meet it is for us to give.
Help, ye bright angelic spirits,
Bring your sweetest, noblest lays;
Help to sing our Savior’s merits,
Help to chant Immanuel’s praise!
