Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

When sinners utter boasting words

John Newton · 1779

Source: Olney Hymns

Stanza 1

When sinners utter boasting words,
And glory in their shame;
The LORD, well-pleased, an ear affords
To those who fear his name.

Stanza 2

They often meet to seek his face,
And what they do, or say,
Is noted in his book of grace
Against another day.

Stanza 3

For they, by faith, a day descry,
And joyfully expect,
When he, descending from the sky,
His jewels will collect.

Stanza 4

Unnoticed now, because unknown,
A poor and suff'ring few;
He comes to claim them for his own,
And bring them forth to view.

Stanza 5

With transport then their Savior's care
And favor they shall prove;
As tender parents guard and spare
The children of their love.

Stanza 6

Assembled worlds will then discern
The saints alone are blest;
When wrath shall like an oven burn,
And vengeance strike the rest.