True and False Zeal

I

Zeal is that pure and heav’nly flame
The fire of love supplies;
While that which often bears the name
Is self in a disguise.

II

True zeal is merciful and mild,
Can pity and forbear;
The false is headstrong, fierce, and wild,
And breathes revenge and war.

III

While zeal for truth the Christian warms,
He knows the worth of peace;
But self contends for names and forms,
Its party to increase.

IV

Zeal has attained its highest aim,
Its end is satisfied,
If sinners love the Saviour’s name,
Nor seeks it aught beside.

V

But self, however well employ’d,
Has its own ends in view;
And says, as boasting Jehu cried,
“Come, see what I can do.”

VI

Self may its poor reward obtain,
And be applauded here;
But zeal the best applause will gain,
When Jesus shall appear.

VII

Dear Lord! the idol self dethrone,
And from our hearts remove;
And let no zeal by us be shown
But that which springs from love.