The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. Containing, besides his Sermons, and Essays on miscellaneous subjects, several additional pieces, Selected from his Manuscripts by the Rev. Dr. Jennings, and the Rev. Dr. Doddridge, in 1753: to which are prefixed, memoirs of the life of the author, compiled by the Rev. George Burder. In six volumes |
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 | The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. |  |
PSALM 118. v. 22, 23. Third Part. (C. M.) Christ the Foundation of his Church.
I
Behold the sure foundation-stoneWhich God in Zion lays
To build our heavenly hopes upon,
And his eternal praise.
II
Chosen of God to sinners dear,And saints adore the name,
They trust their whole salvation here,
Nor shall they suffer shame.
III
The foolish builders, scribe and priest,Reject it with disdain;
Yet on this rock, the church shall rest,
And envy rage in vain.
IV
What tho' the gates of hell withstood,Yet must this building rise:
'Tis thy own work, almighty God,
And wondrous in our eyes.
These five verses, from the 22nd to the 27th, contain a glorious prophesy of Christ: I have explained them at large in the language of the New Testament, in two distinct hymns: 1 Pet. ii. 4, 6. Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious; and he that believeth on him shall not be ashamed—disallowed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Matt. xvi. 18. Upon this rock will I build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. See the notes on the following hymns.
| The Works of the Reverend and Learned Isaac Watts, D. D. | |