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Robert Murray M'Cheyne
Robert Murray M’Cheyne (1813–1843). Born on May 21, 1813, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Robert Murray M’Cheyne was a Scottish Presbyterian minister known for his fervent piety and preaching. The youngest of five, he excelled at Edinburgh University, studying classics and divinity, and was licensed to preach in 1835. Ordained in 1836, he served St. Peter’s Church in Dundee, where his passionate sermons and pastoral care revived a spiritually dormant congregation. A close friend of Andrew Bonar, he co-authored a report on Jewish missions in Palestine in 1839, fueling missionary zeal. M’Cheyne’s frail health led to breaks, but he spearheaded a revival in Dundee during 1839–1840, preaching alongside William Burns. He emphasized daily Bible reading, creating a plan still used today, and wrote hymns like “Jehovah Tsidkenu.” Unmarried, he died of typhus on March 25, 1843, at age 29, mourned widely for his holiness. He said, “A man is what he is on his knees before God, and nothing more.”
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Sermon Summary
Robert Murray M'Cheyne reflects on the journey of the Israelites through the Red Sea, emphasizing the miraculous deliverance by God as they faced overwhelming odds. He draws parallels between their experience and the struggles of believers today, highlighting the importance of faith and reliance on God as our guiding light through life's dark moments. M'Cheyne encourages the faithful to mix their fears with joy, knowing that God's grace leads them safely through trials. Ultimately, he envisions a future where believers will rejoice in the victory of salvation, singing praises for the journey they have endured. The sermon serves as a reminder of hope and the power of faith amidst life's challenges.
Scriptures
"They Sing the Song of Moses"
Dark was the night, the wind was high, The way by mortals never trod; For God had made the channel dry, When faithful Moses stretched the rod. The raging waves on either hand Stood like a massy tott'ring wall, And on the heaven-defended band Refused to let the waters fall. With anxious footsteps, Israel trod The depths of that mysterious way; Cheered by the pillar of their God, That shone for them with fav'ring ray. But when they reached the opposing shore, As morning streaked the eastern sky, They saw the billows hurry o'er The flower of Pharaoh's chivalry. Then awful gladness filled the mind Of Israel's mighty ransomed throng; And while they gazed on all behind, Their wonder burst into a song. Thus, Thy redeemed ones, Lord, on earth, While passing through this vale of weeping, Mix holy trembling with their mirth, And anxious watching with their sleeping. The night is dark, the storm is loud, The path no human strength can tread; Jesus, be Thou the pillar-cloud, Heaven's light upon our path to shed. And oh! when, life's dark journey o'er, And death's enshrouding valley past, We plant our foot on yonder shore, And tread yon golden strand at last. Shall we not see with deep amaze, How grace hath led us safe along; And whilst behind - before, we gaze, Triumphant burst into a song! And even on earth, though sore bested, Fightings without, and fears within; Sprinkled to-day from slavish dread, To-morrow captive led by sin. Yet would I lift my downcast eyes, On Thee, Thou brilliant tower of fire - Thou dark cloud to mine enemies - That Hope may all my breast inspire. And thus the Lord, my strength, I'll praise, Though Satan and his legions rage; And the sweet song of faith I'll raise, To cheer me on my pilgrimage. EDINBURGH, 1835.
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Robert Murray M’Cheyne (1813–1843). Born on May 21, 1813, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Robert Murray M’Cheyne was a Scottish Presbyterian minister known for his fervent piety and preaching. The youngest of five, he excelled at Edinburgh University, studying classics and divinity, and was licensed to preach in 1835. Ordained in 1836, he served St. Peter’s Church in Dundee, where his passionate sermons and pastoral care revived a spiritually dormant congregation. A close friend of Andrew Bonar, he co-authored a report on Jewish missions in Palestine in 1839, fueling missionary zeal. M’Cheyne’s frail health led to breaks, but he spearheaded a revival in Dundee during 1839–1840, preaching alongside William Burns. He emphasized daily Bible reading, creating a plan still used today, and wrote hymns like “Jehovah Tsidkenu.” Unmarried, he died of typhus on March 25, 1843, at age 29, mourned widely for his holiness. He said, “A man is what he is on his knees before God, and nothing more.”