The Concept of Sacrifice in the Theology of the Eucharistic Hymns of Charles Wesley

Abstract

John and Charles Wesley's Eucharistic hymnal, Hymns on the Lord's Supper, was their second most popular hymnal during their lifetime. This thesis explores the vocabulary and imagery of the atonement in this collection of hymns. Following the introduction is a consideration of the historical context in which the Eucharistic hymnal was produced. Although John and Charles Wesley are thoroughly Protestant, there is no hesitation to use the word 'sacrifice' in this collection of hymns. Before exploring the theology and imagery of the atonement, their use of sacrifice must be clearly understood. After exploring the theology of the atonement presented in the imagery and vocabulary, the theology in the Eucharistic hymnal is contrasted with their theology presented in their correspondence and sermons. The conclusion aims to provide not only a summary but also an application for this Eucharistic theology- today. Hymns on the Lord's Supper uses imagery and vocabulary related to the sacrament and the poetry throughout the hymnal, from cover to cover, describes the theology of the atonement. Whether it is the imagery of bread and wine, or the vocabulary of covenant and ransom, the atonement is central to the theology of this hymnal.