Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

How sweet the name of Jesus sounds

John Newton

An English Anglican cleric and former slave ship captain (1725–1807). After surviving a terrifying storm at sea where he cried out to God for mercy, he experienced a profound spiritual awakening. He later became a leading voice in the abolitionist movement, partnering with William Wilberforce to end the slave trade in Britain. His legendary hymn, 'Amazing Grace', was written to illustrate a New Year's sermon in 1773, reflecting his personal awe at how God's grace could rescue and redeem a 'wretch' like him.

Source: Olney Hymns

How sweet the name of Jesus sounds
In a believer's ear?
It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds,
And drives away his fear.
It makes the wounded spirit whole,
And calms the troubled breast;
'Tis Manna to the hungry soul,
And to the weary rest.
Dear name! the rock on which I build,
My shield and hiding place;
My never-failing treas'ry filled
With boundless stores of grace.
By thee my prayers acceptance gain,
Although with sin defiled,
Satan accuses me in vain,
And I am owned a child.
Jesus! my Shepherd, Husband, Friend,
My Prophet, Priest, and King;
My Lord, my Life, my Way, my End,
Accept the praise I bring.
Weak is the effort of my heart,
And cold my warmest thought;
But when I see thee as thou art,
I'll praise thee as I ought.
'Till then I would thy love proclaim
With every fleeting breath,
And may the music of thy name
Refresh my soul in death.