And Can It Be

One of the most prolific and inspiring hymn writers of all time (1707–1788). Along with his brother John, he founded the Methodist movement. Wesley wrote over 6,500 hymns, often finding inspiration while riding on horseback. His hymns, such as 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing' and 'And Can It Be', are celebrated for their theological depth and emotional warmth. His writing was fueled by a dramatic conversion in 1738, after which he dedicated his life to outdoor preaching and writing songs that ordinary, uneducated people could sing to experience God's love.

And can it be that I should gain

An int'rest 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, should die for me?

Amazing love! how can it be

That Thou, my God, should die for me!

'Tis mystery all! Th'Immortal dies!

Who can explore His strange design?

In vain the firstborn seraph tries

To sound the depths of love divine!

'Tis mercy all! let earth adore,

Let angel minds inquire no more.

He left His Father's throne above,

So free, so infinite His grace;

Emptied Himself of all but love,

And bled for Adam's helpless race;

'Tis mercy all, immense and free;

For, O my God, it found out me.

Long my imprisoned spirit lay

Fast bound in sin and nature's night;

Thine eye diffused a quick'ning ray,

I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;

My chains fell off, my heart was free;

I rose, went forth and followed Thee.

No condemnation now I dread;

Jesus, and all in Him is mine!

Alive in Him, my living Head,

And clothed in righteousness divine,

Bold I approach th'eternal throne,

And claim the crown, through Christ my own.

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