Mark: Hymns & Commentary

by Charles Wesley

Charles Wesley was one of the most prolific and influential hymn writers in church history.
This book is primarily a collection of hymns and poetry, but one which expounds and discusses the biblical book of Mark's Gospel systematically and chronologically, covering almost every verse and passage it contains.
Wesley formulates each short selection from the gospel into passages of verse, some of which are only four lines long, and others which continue over many parts and on many pages. In hymn form, he unfolds his understanding and interpretation of these scriptures, expressing and applying each one as a prayer, a song or a reflection.
While his approach remains an unusual method of systematic Biblical exposition, this innovative body of writing can nevertheless be considered Charles Wesley's commentary on the gospel of Mark, expressed in the entirely unique and artistic form which came so naturally to one of the great pioneers of Methodism.

209 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 31, 2015

About the author

Charles Wesley (18 December 1707 – 29 March 1788) was an English leader of the Methodist movement, son of Anglican clergyman and poet Samuel Wesley, the younger brother of Anglican clergyman John Wesley and Anglican clergyman Samuel Wesley (the Younger), and father of musician Samuel Wesley, and grandfather of musician Samuel Sebastian Wesley. Despite their closeness, Charles and his brother John did not always agree on questions relating to their beliefs. In particular, Charles was strongly opposed to the idea of a breach with the Church of England into which they had been ordained. Charles Wesley is chiefly remembered for the many hymns he wrote. He ministered for part of his life in The New Room Chapel in Bristol. His house, located nearby, can still be visited today.