Religion

The Christian

by William Cowper 1731–1800

From Olney Hymns

Religion

Honour and happiness unite
To make the Christian's name a praise;
How fair the scene, how clear the light,
That fills the remnant of his days!

A kingly character he bears,
No change his priestly office knows;
Unfading is the crown he wears,
His joys can never reach a close.

Adorn'd with glory from on high,
Salvation shines upon his face;
His robe is of the ethereal dye,
His steps are dignity and grace.

Inferior honours he disdains,
Nor stoops to take applause from earth:
The King of kings himself maintains
The expenses of his heavenly birth.

The noblest creature seen below,
Ordain'd to fill a throne above;
God gives him all he can bestow,
His kingdom of eternal love!

My soul is ravish'd at the thought!
Methinks from earth I see him rise!
Angels congratulate his lot,
And shout him welcome to the skies!

MLA

Cowper, William. “The Christian.” Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/cowper/201/.

Chicago

Cowper, William. “The Christian.” Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/cowper/201/.

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