Come, Let Us Use the Grace Divine

“Come, Let Us Use the Grace Divine” was written in 1740 by Charles Wesley and is closely associated with covenant renewal and the Lord’s Supper in the Methodist tradition. The hymn calls believers to respond actively to God’s grace by entering into covenant commitment, dedicating themselves afresh to holy living through Christ.

The opening invitation reflects Hebrews 10:19-25, which encourages believers to draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith and to provoke one another unto love and good works (KJV). Wesley presents grace not as passive permission, but as enabling power. Because Christ has opened the way through His sacrifice, believers are invited to approach God boldly and sincerely.

The hymn also draws from Jeremiah 31:31-33, where God promises a new covenant written upon the heart. Wesley emphasizes inward transformation rather than outward form alone. The covenant relationship is rooted in Christ’s redemptive work and sustained by the Holy Spirit’s sanctifying influence. Grace enables obedience, faithfulness, and perseverance.

Luke 22:19-20 records Christ instituting the Lord’s Supper, declaring the cup to be the new testament in His blood. Wesley’s hymn is often sung in connection with this sacrament, highlighting the solemn joy of renewing commitment in remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice. The covenant is sealed by the blood of the Savior, not by human resolve alone.

First Corinthians 11:23-26 further underscores the proclamation of the Lord’s death until He comes. The hymn carries both remembrance and anticipation. It calls believers to live faithfully in the present while awaiting Christ’s return.

“Come, Let Us Use the Grace Divine” serves as both invitation and dedication. Its theology stresses that salvation is by grace, yet grace calls for wholehearted response. The hymn urges believers to embrace the privileges of the new covenant, to live in grateful obedience, and to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ who has bound them to Himself by redeeming love.