Are we still singing our theology?

It has long been said that Methodists learned their theology from their hymn books. In many contemporary United Methodist churches, Charles Wesley’s hymns are not well known or – in some cases – even sung. In the absence of these sources of Wesleyan theology, how careful are we in selecting other hymns?

Below is a classic Wesleyan hymn. Five of the six verses are probably not that unique in their theological claims. But what about the fifth verse? Do we not hear the distinctive voice of Wesleyan theology there?

1.
And are we yet alive,
and see each other’s face?
Glory and thanks to Jesus give
for his almighty grace!

2.
Preserved by power divine
to full salvation here,
again in Jesus’ praise we join,
and in his sight appear.

3.
What troubles have we seen,
what mighty conflicts past,
fightings without, and fears within,
since we assembled last!

4.
Yet out of all the Lord
hath brought us by his love;
and still he doth his help afford,
and hides our life above.

5.
Then let us make our boast
of his redeeming power,
which saves us to the uttermost,
till we can sin no more.

6.
Let us take up the cross
till we the crown obtain,
and gladly reckon all things loss
so we may Jesus gain.

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Is the notion that God saves us to “the uttermost,” which I hear as entire sanctification, common in non-Wesleyan hymns, gospel songs, and praise music? Is the notion that we sin no more?

What about the hymn below? Read the last two verses. Aren’t these essential Wesleyan teaching? Do we still sing this theology if we cease singing hymns like this one?

1.
Depth of mercy! Can there be
mercy still reserved for me?
Can my God his wrath forbear,
me, the chief of sinners, spare?

2.
I have long withstood his grace,
long provoked him to his face,
would not hearken to his calls,
grieved him by a thousand falls.

3.
I my Master have denied,
I afresh have crucified,
oft profaned his hallowed name,
put him to an open shame.

4.
There for me the Savior stands,
shows his wounds and spreads his hands.
God is love! I know, I feel;
Jesus weeps and loves me still.

5.
Now incline me to repent,
let me now my sins lament,
now my foul revolt deplore,
weep, believe, and sin no more.

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