Christian Classics
‹ Olney Hymns

John Newton & William Cowper · 92 of 356

91. When Peter boasted, soon he fell

Hymn 91

When Peter boasted, soon he fell, Yet was by restored; His case should be regarded well By all who fear the Lord.

A voice it has, and helping hand, to recall; And cautions those who think they stand, Lest suddenly they fall.

He said, “Whatever others do, With Jesus I’ll ;” Yet soon amidst a murd’rous crew His suff’ring Lord denied.

He who had been so bold before, Now trembled like a leaf; Not only lied, but cursed and swore, To gain the more belief.

While he blasphemed he heard the cock, And Jesus looked in love; At once, as if by lightning struck, His tongue forbore to move.

Delivered thus from Satan’s snare He starts, as from a sleep; His Savior’s look he could not bear, But hasted forth to weep.

But sure the faithful cock had crowed A hundred times in vain; Had not the Lord that look bestowed, The meaning to explain.

As I, like Peter, vows have made, Yet acted Peter’s part; So conscience, like the cock, upbraids My base, ungrateful heart.

Lord Jesus, hear a sinner’s cry, My broken peace renew; And grant one pitying look, that I May weep with Peter too.