Do the words of this hymn thrill you? Or do you think the message contains unbiblical herasies?
2007-12-16 03:19:59 · 17 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Yes, the version played on the bagpipes is brilliant - although bagpipes always sound best when they're played out of doors (and up a mountain). And, yes, I know the words can be sung along with Eric Burdon and the Animals - but it's far too dreary.
Interested to know that the hymn was written by a British captain who used to run slave ships. Gives one a different perspective to the message of hope.
I agree with the answer expressing concern that some people talk glibly about being saved, yet their actions belie the claim. Saving grace, the Holy Spirit, works to change lives for the better and to produce the fruits of the Spirit.
2007-12-16 21:14:20 · update #1
Anyone have a problem with the lyrics: 'When we've been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun, we've no less days to sing God's praise than when we'd first begun'?
2007-12-16 21:16:27 · update #2
There is no heresy in this glorious hymn. It was composed by John Newton who lived between 1725-1807. Only someone who has experienced God's saving grace could have written those words. Those who are trusting in their works to earn God's eventual approval would, however, find them 'heretical'.
When Newton speaks of 'the veil' he refers to dying physically ('when mortal life shall cease') then being in heaven. The veil in God's temple was a huge woven tapestry, very thick, sectioning off the Holy from the Most Holy. Only the High Priest could enter through that veil once a year, on the Day of Atonement, with the blood of the sacrificed lamb. That was the veil that was awesomely rent assunder without human hand the hour Jesus died. It signified that the way into God's very presence was now opened up for those who were 'sprinkled' with the blood of the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. To sing that hymn with understanding is a sublime experience. I feel sorry for anyone who imagines it contains heresy.
2007-12-19 07:22:32 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Frankly I do worry about this hymn and a number of other hymns. They seem to suggest that becoming OK in God's sight is a mechanical process which involves taking a few bible verses out of context and reading them back to God.
I also worry when people talk glibly about only believing and saying the right things. Whereas it is true that God decides whether to help us, (this is what I understand 'grace' means) this is no basis to behave in a godless way and hope that you will never be held to account for your actions. I have met people who actually believe that they can get away with doing foul deeds just because they believe and say the right things!
2007-12-16 06:29:25 · answer #2 · answered by Steven Ring 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Wonderful hymn! And it resonates with me because I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I see, thanks to God. Strangely, there are some people who think the words support the idea of having an immortal soul and this, to them, is unbiblical. I think it's the last verse they take exception to: 'When we've been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun, we've no less days to sing God's praise than when we'd first begun.'
I thought every Christian looks forward to being in God's presence forevermore - isn't that what the Bible tells us? Mind you, I'd appreciate an explanation on the bit that says 'Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail, and mortal life shall cease, I shall possess, within the veil, a life of joy and peace.' Anyone know what the veil means?
2007-12-16 03:45:39 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 4⤊ 0⤋
Yes it is a wonderful hymn. There is a newer version of it right now that they are playing on the Christian Radio Station. I can't remember the Artist's name, but they have changed the words a little. In between the verses they have added a new chorus. It goes like this.
"My chains are gone.
I've been set free.
My God, my Savior ransomed me".
2007-12-16 03:29:35 · answer #4 · answered by Freedom 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I am an atheist and I love the song, especially on bagpipes. I don't think of it as religious and never have. Just inspiring.
2007-12-16 03:26:25 · answer #5 · answered by meissen97 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Salam
O LORD, give me to enjoy moderation,
make me into one of the people of
right behaviour, the proofs of right
conduct, and the servants of
righteousness, and provide me with
triumph at the place of Return and
safety from the Ambush!
2007-12-16 03:23:12 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 4⤊ 0⤋
I know that the words fit perfectly to the tune of "House of the Rising Sun" by the Animals.- If you don't believe me- try it for yourself!
2007-12-16 03:24:56 · answer #7 · answered by James Melton 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Kait, that version of Amazing Grace was done by Chris Tomlin.
i love that hymn. its awesome. so much truth in it
2007-12-16 08:39:07 · answer #8 · answered by clairelouise 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Gray, That tune is one of the best spiritual tunes ever written. It moves the soul. But that's just me!!
P.S. Have you ever heard it played with Bag Pipes?
Awesome!
2007-12-16 03:26:11 · answer #9 · answered by mtchndjnmtch 6 · 5⤊ 0⤋
I think its the most inspirational, heart warming, and God loving song ever written.
2007-12-16 03:23:49 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋