Begone, Unbelief, My Saviour Is Near is a Christian hymn emphasizing unwavering faith in Christ’s presence, divine provision, and God’s faithfulness. The lyrics encourage believers to trust in God’s promises through prayer, obedience, and remembrance of His past faithfulness. The song beautifully reflects the biblical truth that God never abandons His people, even in trials.
VERSE 1
Begone, unbelief,
My Saviour is near,
And for my relief
Will surely appear;
By prayer let me wrestle,
And he will perform;
With Christ in the vessel,
I smile at the storm.
VERSE 2
Though dark be my way,
Since he is my guide,
‘Tis mine to obey,
‘Tis his to provide;
Though cisterns be broken
And creatures all fail,
The word he has spoken
Will surely prevail.
VERSE 3
His love in time past
Forbids me to think
He’ll leave me at last
In trouble to sink;
Each sweet Ebenezer
I have in review
Confirms his good pleasure
To help me quite through.
VERSE 4
Since all that I meet
Shall work for my good,
The bitter is sweet,
The medicine food;
Though painful at present,
‘Twill cease before long,
And then O how pleasant
The conqueror’s song!
Story behind Begone Unbelief My Saviour Is Near Hymn
John Newton, renowned for penning “Amazing Grace,” authored “Begone, Unbelief, My Saviour Is Near” in 1779. Before his conversion, Newton led a tumultuous life, including involvement in the slave trade. His transformation into a devout Christian and later an Anglican clergyman profoundly influenced his hymn writing. [1]
This hymn reflects Newton’s personal journey from doubt to steadfast faith, emphasizing reliance on Christ during life’s storms. The opening lines, “Begone, unbelief; my Saviour is near,” capture His deep trust in divine presence. [2]
The phrase “With Christ in the vessel, I smile at the storm” alludes to Mark 4:35-41, where Jesus calms the storm, symbolizing peace amid trials. Newton’s use of “Ebenezer” refers to 1 Samuel 7:12, where Samuel sets up a stone to commemorate God’s help, reminding believers of past divine faithfulness. [3]
Through this hymn, Newton encourages believers to trust in God’s unwavering support, drawing from his own experiences of grace and redemption.
Trusting in God’s Presence and Guidance
“Begone, unbelief, my Saviour is near” expresses confidence in Christ’s presence as the remedy for doubt. This aligns with Hebrews 13:5, where God assures, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” The command to cast out unbelief reflects Mark 9:24, where a Father cries, “I believe; help my unbelief!” acknowledging faith despite struggles.
“By prayer let me wrestle, and he will perform” highlights the role of prayer in trusting God’s action. This recalls Philippians 4:6-7, which instructs believers to pray with thanksgiving rather than be anxious. The phrase also mirrors Genesis 32:26, where Jacob wrestles with God, seeking His blessing.
“Though dark be my way, since he is my guide” affirms reliance on God’s leading, reflecting Psalm 23:4, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” The line emphasizes obedience, as Proverbs 3:5-6 urges trust in God rather than one’s own understanding.
“His love in time past forbids me to think he’ll leave me at last” reflects faith in God’s faithfulness. Romans 8:38-39 assures that nothing can separate believers from God’s love, reinforcing trust in His continued care.
The song presents a biblical theology of perseverance, divine provision, and trust in God’s sovereignty. Its references to trials, provision, and ultimate victory echo Romans 8:28 and James 1:2-4. No unbiblical elements are present; rather, the lyrics encourage faith and confidence in God’s promises.
Relevant Bible Verses about Begone Unbelief My Saviour Is Near Hymn
“I will never desert you, nor will I ever abandon you.” Hebrews 13:5 NASB
“Immediately the boy’s father cried out and said, ‘I do believe; help my unbelief!'” Mark 9:24 NASB
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NASB
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4 NASB
“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 NASB
Begone Unbelief My Saviour Is Near lyrics and music by John Newton, (1779) Public Domain