L.M. Primitive Christianity. 1 HAPPY the souls that first believed, To Jesus and each other cleaved, Joined by the unction from above In mystic fellowship of love.
2 Meek, simple followers of the Lamb, They lived, and spake, and thought the same; They joyfully conspired to raise Their ceaseless sacrifice of praise.
3 With grace abundantly endued, A pure, believing multitude, They all were of one heart and soul, And only love inspired the whole.
4 O what an age of golden days! O what a choice, peculiar race! Washed in the Lamb's all-cleansing blood, Anointed kings and priests to God!
5 Ye different sects, who all declare, "Lo, here is Christ! " or, "Christ is here!" Your stronger proofs divinely give, And show me where the Christians live.
6 The gates of hell cannot prevail; The church on earth can never fail; Ah, join me to thy secret ones! Ah, gather all thy living stones!
7 Scattered o'er all the earth they lie, Till thou collect them with thine eye, Draw by the music of thy name, And charm into a beauteous frame.
8 For this the pleading Spirit groans, And cries in all thy banished ones; Greatest of gifts, thy love impart, And make us of one mind and heart.
9 Join every soul that looks to thee In bonds of perfect charity; Now, Lord, the glorious fullness give, And all in all for ever live!
