tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8541750424301079707.post6435070789901512728..comments2023-12-30T17:48:30.014-08:00Comments on Mark's Musings: God can do new things using whatever He wants to use, a reponse to Karl VatersMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12218349188104332410noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8541750424301079707.post-38981473106317976352016-08-16T13:49:42.098-07:002016-08-16T13:49:42.098-07:00Thank you for your post. Karl Vater's article...Thank you for your post. Karl Vater's article really sadden me. If he fully aware the history of Rev John Newton's deep love for his congregation, he will understand the reasons Olney Hymns were published. It was for his under-educated congregation to be able to praise God with simpler language yet biblical rich doctrine. One can almost trace Newton's conversion story in the prose in a very personal manner;therefore, all the "I"s and me were utilized. Amazing Grace was attached to his New Year sermon in 1773; it was widely known Newton often reflected on his Savior and his conversion. Contrary to Vater's believe, this hymn was overlooked during Newton's time. It was rediscovered in 19th century through a tune collector, William Walker, in the Southern plantations of America. With a new tune, New Briton, attached and a new sixth stanza, Walker republished this hymn. The hymn was reintroduced to churches and until today, it is considered the most sung hymn in America. It has blessed me tremendously as a believer.<br /><br />One other story came in my mind was regarding Fanny Crosby. God used Isaac Watt's hymn, Alas! and Did My Savior Bleed, to break Crosby's stony heart 143 years after it was penned.<br /><br />The main purpose of worship music is to worship God and secondly to edify one another (as to church). Never for entertaining.<br /><br />Thank you for your time!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8541750424301079707.post-70363609326057253672016-08-10T08:47:50.748-07:002016-08-10T08:47:50.748-07:00AmenAmenall2himhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04293646493572346763noreply@blogger.com