Blog of the week 7

A Baptist there was, name of Beddome

He wrote down his sermons then said 'em

He also spent time

on Christian rhyme

They're good - I should know cos I've read 'em.

This time we focus on my Benjamin Beddome blog here. Benjamin Beddome (1717-1795) is a largely forgotten 18th Century English Baptist preacher, remembered today only as a minor hymnwriter. For over half a century he served as pastor of the Baptist church meeting at Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire. He is worth more than a passing glance. I have done over a hundred posts so far on Beddome's life, sermons and hymns. I wish I had time to do more. The blog currently has music from Kevin Twit singing a Beddome hymn.

1. Draw me from created good,

From self, the world, and sin

To the fountain of Thy blood,

And make me pure within

Chorus: If Thou hast drawn a thousand times

(Oh draw me Lord again)

Around me cast the Spirit’s bands

(Oh draw me Lord again)

2. Lead me to Thy mercy seat,

Oh draw me nearer still

Like Mary, draw me to Thy feet,

To sit and learn Thy will

3. Draw me all the desert through

With cords of heavenly love

And when prepared for going home,

Oh draw me up above