Jesus
The work explores themes of faith, redemption, and the transformative power of Jesus. It begins with a deep yearning for a personal connection to Jesus, emphasizing the beauty and grace found in His presence. The speaker expresses a desire to move beyond rigid doctrines and creeds, seeking a more profound spiritual experience centered on Christ. The imagery of the cross symbolizes both suffering and power, highlighting the paradox of salvation through sacrifice. The speaker acknowledges human frailty, recognizing a tendency to stray but expresses a longing to remain close to the crucified Christ. This relationship is portrayed as essential for spiritual fulfillment and strength. The text emphasizes the need for a faith that withstands life's challenges, rooted in the steadfastness of Christ. The speaker desires a transformative faith that shifts focus from worldly concerns to spiritual truths, illustrating a journey toward deeper understanding and commitment to Jesus. The work ultimately serves as a meditation on the significance of Christ in the believer's life, advocating for a personal and enduring faith that transcends mere belief.
By Frances Ellen Watkins Harper · First published 1866 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Spiritual, Inspirational · 204 words
First lines
Come speak to me of Jesus, I love that precious name, Who built a throne of power Upon a cross of shame.
Unveil to me the beauty That glorifies his face -- The fullness of the Father -- The image of his grace.
My soul would run to meet Him; Restrain me not with creeds; For Christ, the hope of glory, Is what my spirit needs.
I need the grand attraction, That centres 'round the cross, To change the gilded things of earth, To emptiness and dross.
What this Textopian page supports
Jesus is listed on Textopian as a poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, dated 1866 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Date: 1866 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Spiritual, Inspirational, Christian Literature, Lyric Poetry
- Length: 204 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Jesus by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Jesus?
- How does this poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Religious Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Pure In Heart Shall See God by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Sir We Would See Jesus by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Let The Light Enter by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Fishers Of Men by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- The Change by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- The Building by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
Genres
- Religious Poetry — The poem explores themes of faith, devotion, and the significance of Jesus, characteristic of religious poetry.
- Spiritual — The work reflects a deep spiritual yearning and connection to Christ, emphasizing personal faith and spiritual growth.
- Inspirational — The poem aims to inspire readers through its message of hope and the transformative power of faith.
- Christian Literature — The text is rooted in Christian beliefs and teachings, making it a part of Christian literary tradition.
Tags
Christianity · Literary Fiction · Social Justice · Slavery · Racism · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · African American Experience · Faith · Morality · Ethics · Human Rights