Olney Hymns (1840)/Book 1/Hymn 124

124.
The Exorcists.—Acts, xix, 13—16.

1 When the apostle wonders wrought,
And heal'd the sick in Jesu's name,
The sons of Sceva vainly thought
That they had power to do the same.

2 On one possess'd they tried their art,
And naming Jesus preach'd by Paul,
They charged the spirit to depart,
Expecting he'd obey their call.

3 The spirit answer'd with a mock,
"Jesus I know, and Paul I know;
I must have gone if Paul had spoke;
But who are ye that bid me go?"

4 With fury then the man he fill'd,
Who on the poor pretenders flew;
Naked and wounded, almost kill'd,
They fled in all the people's view.

5 Jesus! that name pronounced by faith,
Is full of wonder-working power:
It conquers Satan, sin, and death,
And cheers in trouble's darkest hour.

6 But they who are not born again
Know nothing of it but the sound;
They do but take his name in vain
When most their zeal and pains abound.

7 Satan their vain attempts derides,
Whether they talk or pray or preach;
Long as the love of sin abides,
His power is safe beyond their reach.

8 But you, believers, may rejoice,
Satan well knows your mighty Friend;
He trembles at your Saviour's voice,
And owns he cannot gain his end.