Archive for the ‘Charles Wesley’ Category

Posted on November 20, 2009 - by Stephen Murray

And can it be…

And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Savior’s blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain—
For me, who Him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Amazing love! How can it be,
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me? – Charles Wesley 1738

I needed the gospel to dwell richly in me this afternoon and as I tried to get my mind and heart focused on the beauty of what God has done in Christ the words of this song floated into my head. I caused his pain and I pursued him to death yet in that very act he died for me. I need this truth desperately. I need it branded upon my heart in such a way that it makes it emotionally impossible for me to pursue other idols and lusts in this world. I need it to be impressed on my heart in such a way that my will is overcome with grief at the thought of disobedience. I need Christ to have such a hold on my heart that it is caged up to the point that it acknowledges only one reality: I am the recipient of amazing love!

Posted on November 22, 2007 - by Stephen Murray

Finishing Exams, the Gospel and Charles Wesley

I’m finished. And I feel so free! If you ever preach to a student congregation and you want to illustrate how the gospel frees us from sin there’s nothing better than using the example of completed exams – it reminds me of Charles Wesley’s words (I think it was him): ‘My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose went forth and followed thee’. Aaaaah…what a feeling!