Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

Jesus, whose blood so freely streamed

William Cowper

A brilliant English poet and hymnist (1731–1800) who struggled with severe depression and mental illness throughout his life. Despite his deep struggles and times of darkness, Cowper found profound comfort in his faith and his friendship with John Newton. Together, they co-authored the famous Olney Hymns. Cowper's vulnerability and search for hope led him to write some of the church's most comforting and honest hymns, including 'There is a Fountain Filled with Blood' and 'God Moves in a Mysterious Way', which he wrote to declare God's hidden goodness during his own deepest spiritual trials.

Source: Olney Hymns

Jesus, whose blood so freely streamed
To satisfy the laws demand;
By thee from guilt and wrath redeemed,
Before the Father's face I stand.
To reconcile offending man,
Make Justice drop her angry rod;
What creature could have formed the plan,
Or who fulfil it but a God?
No drop remains of all the curse;
For wretches who deserved the whole;
No arrows dipped in wrath to pierce
The guilty, but returning soul.
Peace by such means co dearly bought,
What rebel could have hoped to see?
Peace, by his injured sovereign wrought,
His Sovereign fastened to the tree.
Now, LORD, thy feeble worm prepare!
For strife with earth and hell begins;
Confirm and gird me for the war,
They hate the soul that hates his sins.
Let them in horrid league agree!
They may assault, they may distress;
But cannot quench thy love to me,
Nor rob me of the LORD my peace.
A Word from JESUS calms the seaA Worldling spent each dayAfflictions, though they seem severe;Alas! Elisha's servant criedAmazing grace! (how sweet the sound)As birds their infant brood protect