English poem
The Institution of a Gospel-Ministry from CHRIST. Eph. iv. 11, 12
by Philip Doddridge (1773–1832)
Father of Mercies, in thine House Smile on our Homage, and our Vows; While with a grateful Heart we share These Pledges of our Saviour's Care.
The Saviour, when to Heav'n he rose In splendid Triumph o'er his Foes, Scatter'd his Gifts on Men below, And wide his royal Bounties flow.
Hence sprung th' Apostles honour'd Name, Sacred beyond heroick Fame; Hence dictates the Prophetick Sage; And hence the Evangelick Page.
In lowlier Forms to bless our Eyes Pastors from hence, and Teachers rise; Who, tho' with feebler Rays they shine, Still gild a long-extended Line.
From Christ their varied Gifts derive, And fed by Christ their Graces live: While, guarded by his potent Hand, 'Midst all the Rage of Hell they stand.
So shall the bright Succession run Thro' the last Courses of the Sun; While unborn Churches by their Care Shall rise and flourish large and fair.
Jesus our Lord their Hearts shall know, The Spring, whence all these Blessings flow: Pastors and People shout his Praise Thro' the long Round of endless Days.
More by Philip Doddridge
- The Impossibility of Prospering while we harden ourselves against GOD. Job ix. 4
- The impudent Rebellion of the Jewish Refugees at Pathros. Jer. xliv. 16, 17, 28
- The Iniquity of sacrificing GOD's Children; or The Evil of a bad or neglected Education. Ezek. xvi. 20…
- The innumerable Mercies of GOD thankfully acknowledged. Psalm cxxxix. 17, 18
- The Keys of Death and the unseen World in CHRIST'S Hand. Rev. i. 18
- The last Words of David. 2 Samuel xxiii. 1-8
- The Light of good Examples, the most effectual Way to glorify GOD. Matt. v. 16
- The little Success which attended the personal Ministry of CHRIST. Isaiah xlix. 4