The Call of the Christian
This poem explores the tension between spiritual calling and worldly ambition. The speaker grapples with the idea of leaving behind a life of comfort and security to answer a higher purpose. The poem presents a nuanced view of faith, highlighting both its transformative power and its potential for self-deception. Through the speaker's inner conflict, the poem raises questions about the nature of true devotion and the costs of following one's conscience.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1863 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Inspirational Literature, Lyric Poetry · 371 words
First lines
Not always as the whirlwind's rush On Horeb's mount of fear, Not always as the burning bush To Midian's shepherd seer, Nor as the awful voice which came To Israel's prophet bards, Nor as the tongues of cloven flame, Nor gift of fearful words, --
Not always thus, with outward sign Of fire or voice from Heaven, The message of a truth divine, The call of God is given! Awaking in the human heart Love for the true and right, -- Zeal for the Christian's better part, Strength for the Christian's fight.
What this Textopian page supports
The Call of the Christian is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1863 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1863 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Inspirational Literature, Lyric Poetry, Philosophical Poetry, Historical Poetry
- Length: 371 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work explores themes of divine calling and spiritual awakening, characteristic of religious poetry.
- Inspirational Literature — It aims to inspire readers towards moral and spiritual growth, emphasizing love and compassion.
- Lyric Poetry — The poem employs personal expression and emotional depth, typical of lyric poetry.
- Philosophical Poetry — It reflects on the nature of truth and the human experience in relation to the divine.
Tags
Christianity · Poetry · Spirituality · Faith · Moral Guidance · Religious Texts · Inspirational · Devotional · Philosophical · Theological · Existentialism · Self-Discovery