Faith and Works. James 2. 17; Gal. 5. 6; 1 John. 3. 7
J. Hart C.M.
1
When filthy passions or unjust
Professors’ minds control;
When men give up the reins to lust,
And interest sways the whole;
2
Or when they seek themselves to please,
Decline each thorny road,
Indulge their sloth, consult their ease,
And slight the fear of God;
3
The faith is vain such men profess;
It comes not from above;
The righteous man does righteousness,
And true faith works by love.
4
[Men’s actions with their minds will suit;
By them the heart is viewed;
A tree that bears corrupted fruit,
Cannot be callèd good.]
5
The Christian seeks his brother’s good,
Sometimes beyond his own;
Or, if self-interest will intrude,
It does not reign alone.
6
Help us, dear Lord, to honour thee;
Let our good works abound;
Thou art that green, that fruitful tree;
From thee our fruit is found.
