1 SEE how great a flame aspires,
Kindled by a spark of grace!
Jesu's love the nations fires,
Sets the kingdoms on a blaze;
To bring fire on earth he came,
Kindled in some hearts it is,
O that all might catch the flame,
All partake the glorious bliss!
2 When he first the work begun,
Small and feeble was his day;
Now the word doth swiftly run,
Now it wins its widening way;
More and more it spreads and grows,
Ever mighty to prevail,
Sin's strong-holds it now o'erthrows,
Shakes the trembling gates of hell.
3 Sons of God, your Saviour praise!
He the door hath opened wide;
He hath given the word of grace,
Jesu's word is glorified;
Jesus, mighty to redeem,
He alone the work hath wrought;
Worthy is the work of him,
Him who spake a world from nought.
4 Saw ye not the cloud arise,
Little as a human hand?
Now it spreads along the skies,
Hangs o'er all the thirsty land;
Lo! the promise of a shower
Drops already from above;
But the Lord will shortly pour
All the Spirit of his love!
See How Great A Flame Aspires Video
See How Great A Flame Aspires Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"See How Great A Flame Aspires" is a hymn written by Charles Wesley, a prolific hymn-writer and co-founder of the Methodist movement. This powerful hymn, inspired by the flame of God's love, speaks of the transformative impact of Jesus' love on the nations and the desire for all to experience its glorious bliss.
I. The Meaning of "See How Great A Flame Aspires":
The hymn opens with the imagery of a flame that aspires and grows with the spark of God's grace. This flame represents the love of Jesus, which has the power to ignite the hearts of believers and set the kingdoms of this world ablaze with the message of the Gospel.
The song expresses the longing for this flame of love to spread throughout the earth, bringing light and warmth to those who are lost in sin. It highlights the transformative work of Jesus, who came to earth to kindle this fire in the hearts of believers, empowering them to carry His love to the ends of the earth.
II. The Inspiration Behind the Song:
While there isn't a specific documented story behind the inspiration for "See How Great A Flame Aspires," it is clear that Charles Wesley's inspiration came from his deep understanding of the Gospel and his personal experience of God's transforming love.
Charles Wesley, along with his brother John Wesley, played a significant role in the Methodist revival in the 18th century. They preached the message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and emphasized the importance of experiencing a personal relationship with Him. It is likely that this hymn was born out of Charles Wesley's desire to ignite a passion for evangelism and to see the flames of God's love spread throughout the world.
III. Bible Verses Related to the Song:
1. Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV):
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
This verse echoes the theme of the hymn, emphasizing the importance of believers shining as lights in the world. The flame of God's love within us is meant to be shared with others, illuminating their lives and drawing them closer to the Father.
2. Acts 1:8 (ESV):
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
This verse reminds us that the flame of God's love is not meant to be contained within the walls of the church but is meant to empower us to be witnesses of His love to the ends of the earth. The song's call for all to catch the flame resonates with this verse, highlighting the universal mission of every believer to share the Gospel.
3. Hebrews 12:29 (ESV):
"For our God is a consuming fire."
This verse emphasizes the power and intensity of God's love. The flame that aspires in the hymn symbolizes the all-consuming love of Jesus, which has the ability to transform lives and bring about spiritual revival.
IV. Conclusion:
"See How Great A Flame Aspires" by Charles Wesley is a powerful hymn that encapsulates the Christian's call to carry the flame of God's love to the nations. Its passionate language and vivid imagery inspire believers to become active participants in spreading the Gospel message and igniting a longing for a deeper experience of God's love.
As we reflect on the meaning of this hymn, let us be reminded of our role as ambassadors of Christ, called to shine His light and share His love with a world in need. May we catch the flame of God's love and be consumed by it, so that others may see and be drawn to the life-transforming power of Jesus Christ.
