If you have ever been to a church service, you may have heard the hymn “Blest Be The Tie That Binds”. This hymn is often sung during the closing of a church service, and it has a powerful message about the importance of unity and fellowship in the Christian faith.
Origins of the Hymn
The hymn “Blest Be The Tie That Binds” was written by John Fawcett in the 18th century. Fawcett was a Baptist pastor who wrote the hymn to commemorate his decision to remain with his congregation instead of accepting a larger and more lucrative church position.
The hymn was first published in 1782, and it quickly became popular among both Baptists and other Christian denominations.
The Meaning of the Hymn
The lyrics of “Blest Be The Tie That Binds” speak to the importance of fellowship and unity in the Christian faith. The hymn celebrates the bond that Christians share with one another, even across different denominations and backgrounds.
The hymn also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation, encouraging Christians to put aside their differences and come together in love and unity.
Lyrics of the Hymn
The full lyrics of “Blest Be The Tie That Binds” are as follows:
“Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.
Before our Father’s throne
We pour our ardent prayers;
Our fears, our hopes, our aims are one
Our comforts and our cares.
We share our mutual woes,
Our mutual burdens bear;
And often for each other flows
The sympathizing tear.
When we asunder part,
It gives us inward pain;
But we shall still be joined in heart,
And hope to meet again.”
Uses of the Hymn Today
Today, “Blest Be The Tie That Binds” remains a popular hymn in many Christian churches. It is often sung at the end of church services as a way of reminding congregants of the importance of unity and fellowship in the Christian faith.
The hymn is also often used at funerals and other memorial services as a way of celebrating the bond that the deceased had with their loved ones and with God.
Conclusion
“Blest Be The Tie That Binds” is a hymn that has stood the test of time. Its message of unity, fellowship, and forgiveness continues to resonate with Christians around the world, and it serves as a reminder of the powerful bond that Christians share with one another through their faith in God.
