The Trembling Gaoler

1 A believer, free from care,
May in chains or dungeons sing,
(If the Lord be with him there)
And he happier than a king
Paul and Silas thus confin'd,
Though their backs were torn by whips,
Yet possessing peace of mind,
Sung his praise with joyful lips.

2 Suddenly the prison shook,
Open flew the iron doors,
And the gaoler, terror-struck,
Now his captives' help implores:
Trembling at their feet he fell,
"Tell me firs, what must I do
To be sav'd from grief and hell?
None can tell me this but you."

3 "Look to Jesus, (they reply'd)
If on him thou canst believe;
By the death that he has dy'd,
Thou salvation shall receive:
While the living word he heard,
Faith sprung up within his heart,
And releas'd from all he fear'd,
In their joy his soul had part.

4 Sinners, Christ is still the same,
O that you could likewise fear!
Then the mention of his name
Would be music to your ear;
Jesus rescues Satan's slaves,
His dear wounds still plead, "Forgive!"
Jesus to the utmost saves
Sinners look on him and live.

Source: Hymns and Spiritual Songs for the use of Christians #51

• MIDI file from The Cyber Hymnal #13342