When simplicity we cherish

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When simplicity we cherish

Author: A. G. Spangenberg
Tune: BATTY (123123)
Published in 10 hymnals

Representative Text

1 When simplicity we cherish,
then the soul is full of light;
but that light will quickly vanish,
when of Jesus we lose sight.

2 Those who Christ alone desiring,
those whom nothing else can cheer
but the joy of his inspiring,
lending to his voice an ear;

3 who in Christ find greatest treasure
and upon his grace depend;
who but want to do his pleasure,
just fulfilling his commands;

4 who to Jesus humbly cleaving,
pay obedience to his word,
who in closest union living
with our Savior, Head, and Lord;

5 who in Jesus Christ abiding,
and from self-dependence free,
in none else but him confiding
walk in true simplicity.

6 Those who are by Christ directed,
trusting the Good Shepherd’s care,
from all harm will be protected,
and no danger need to fear.

Source: Moravian Book of Worship #717

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Author: A. G. Spangenberg

Spangenberg, August Gottlieb, son of Georg Spangenberg, Lutheran pastor at Klettenberg near Nordhausen, was born at Klettenberg, July 15, 1704. He entered the University of Jena in 1722, as a student of law, but soon abandoned law for the study of theology. He lived in the house of Professor Buddeus, graduated M.A. in 1726, and for some time lectured there. In Sept. 1732 he went to Halle as adjunct of the Theological faculty and superintendent of the Orphanage schools. Here he associated himself with the Separatists, and by an edict from Berlin was deprived of his offices, and, on April 8, 1733, was expelled from Halle. He at once proceeded to Herrnhut, and was received into the Moravian Community, with which he had become acquainted as ear… Go to person page >

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