Christian Classics
‹ Olney Hymns

John Newton & William Cowper · 93 of 356

92. Legion was my name by nature

Hymn 92

Legion was my name by nature, Satan raged within my breast; Never misery was greater, Never sinner more possessed: Mischievous to all around me, To myself the greatest foe; Thus I was, when Jesus found me, Filled with madness, sin and woe.

Yet in this forlorn condition, When he came to see me free; I replied, to my Physician, “What have I to do with thee?” But he would not be prevented, Rescued me against my will; Had he stayed till I consented, I had been a captive still.

“Satan, though thou fain wouldst have it, Know this soul is none of thine; I have shed my blood to save it, Now I challenge it for mine, Though it long has thee resembled, Henceforth it shall me obey;” Thus he spoke while Satan trembled, Gnashed his teeth and fled away.

Thus my frantic soul he healed, Bid my sins and sorrows cease; “Take, said he, my pardon sealed, I have saved thee, go in peace:” Rather take me, LORD, to heaven, Now thy love and I know; Since thou hast my sins forgiven, Why should I remain below?

“Love, he said, will sweeten labors, Thou hast something yet to do; Go and tell your friends and neighbors, What my love has done for you: Live to manifest my glory, Wait for heav’n a little space; Sinners, when they hear thy story, Will and seek my face.”