1. And can it be that I should gain An int'rest in the Savior's blood? Died He for me, who caused His pain? For me, who Him to death pursued? Amazing love! how can it be That Thou, my God shouldst die for me? 2. He left His Father's throne above, So free, so infinite His grace! Emptied Himself of all but love, And bled for Adam's helpless race! 'Tis mercy all, immense and free, For, O my God, it found out me. 3. Long my imprisoned spirit lay Fast bound in sin and nature's night. Thine eye diffused a quick'ning ray: I woke the dungeon flamed with light! My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee. 4. No condemnation now I dread: Jesus, and all in Him, is mine! Alive in Him, my living Head, And clothed in righteousness divine, Bold I approach th'eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own. Chorus: Amazing love! how can it be That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me!
Lyrics:
Charles Wesley
Music: Thomas Campbell
Tune: SAGINA
Meter: 8.8.8.8.8.8. with Refrain
Charles Wesley, 1707–1788
Even though he had a strict religious training in his youth, education at Oxford University, and missionary service in the new colony of Georgia, Charles Wesley had no peace or joy in his heart and life. Returning to London after a discouraging time in America, he met with a group of Moravians in the Aldersgate Hall and came to realize that “salvation is by faith alone.” In his journal of May 20th he wrote:
At midnight I gave myself to Christ, assured that I was safe, whether sleeping or waking. I had the continual experience of His power to overcome all temptation, and I confessed with joy and surprise that He was able to do exceeding abundantly for me above what I can ask or think.
In this spirit of joyous enthusiasm, Charles began to write new hymns with increased fervor. He traveled throughout Great Britain with his older brother, John, an estimated quarter of a million miles, mostly on horseback, leading crowds of thousands in singing his hymns in mass outdoor services.
With every new spiritual experience or thought that crossed Charles’ mind, a new hymn was born. Even on his deathbed it is said that he dictated to his wife a final hymn of praises to the Lord he had loved so intimately and served so effectively.