“There are two ways” A hymn from the sixteenth century Anabaptist Ausbund, reads as follows:
(Verse one)
There are two ways, in this, our day, One narrow and the other broad; Who now will go the narrow way Will be despised by all abroad.
This plainly God’s word teaches us, The narrow entrance way go in; Straight is the gate, who enters thus, Must first endure great suffering.
(Verse two)
There—after, there’s eternal rest, Therefore, O man, Thy way prepare; Wilt thou be in God’s kingdom blessed Eternally with righteous there.
After this time nought shall transpire But peace and joy eternally; The righteous then, this shall acquire Who God’s will honor constantly.
(Verse 3)
But he who the broad way shall go, The stairs to hell, this is the same; He now is lost, God’s wrath shall know, But blessed is he who’s born again.
To him hath God prepared, impearled A crown eternity shall hold; It shall not pass away, O world, Away then, with your gain and gold.
(Verse 4)
O, take the straight and narrow way That thou the lasting crown obtain; Which God doth but His church convey Which He hath cleansed from sin and stain.
Therefore away with all man’s gain, Desire, vain pomp, and arrogance; Turn sharp away from all known sin, So thou be known as God’s child hence.
(Verse 5)
Nought other can the way become, Who will eternal suffering flee; Must righteous be, this is the sum, Go on your way, nor fancy see.
Press toward the mark till endless day, For who the prize at last will gain; All must forsake upon this way Would he the lasting crown obtain. _________________ SI Moderator - Greg Gordon
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