Onward Christian Soldiers Hymn Story and Lyrics

Sabine Baring-Gould and Arthur Sullivan composed this hymn. The words were written by Sabine Baring-Gould in 1865 while the music to the song was added in 1871 by Arthur Sullivan. 

Arthur Sullivan added the tune of the song at his friend Ernest Clay Ker Seymer’s house. This later made him name his tune “St. Gertrude” after his friend’s wife.

This hymn is one of the commonly known gospel hymns, derived from the New Testament, where Christians are sometimes referred to as soldiers of Jesus Christ. This can be seen in verses such as II Timothy 2:3 (KJV): "Thou, therefore, endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."

The hymn was originally meant for the procession with the cross by children who walked from Horbury Bridge to Horbury St Peter's Church near Wakefield, Yorkshire, at Whitsuntide in 1865. 

This hymn was originally titled, "Hymn for Procession with Cross and Banners" and Baring-Gould composed it in five minutes. He was later reported to have said that some of the original lines could have been faulty.

The original hymn was made to a different made which did not gain wide acceptance. It is only after  Sullivan added his tune that this song gained wide acceptance.

In 1941, Winston Churchill was on the Royal Navy ship, HMS Prince of Wales with  Franklin Roosevelt and he chose this hymn during a church service on the ship.

He later gave the following reason for his choice:

"We sang "Onward, Christian Soldiers" indeed, and I felt that this was no vain presumption, but that we had the right to feel that we were serving a cause for the sake of which a trumpet has sounded from on high. When I looked upon that densely packed congregation of fighting men of the same language, of the same faith, of the same fundamental laws, of the same ideals ... it swept across me that here was the only hope, but also the sure hope, of saving the world from measureless degradation".

Sabine Baring-Gould

Onward Christian Soldiers Hymn Lyrics

1 Onward Christian soldiers!

Marching as to war,

With the cross of Jesus

Going on before.

Christ, the royal Master,

Leads against the foe;

Forward into battle,

See, His banners go!

Onward, Christian soldiers!

Marching as to war,

With the cross of Jesus,

Going on before.

At the name of Jesus

Satan’s host doth flee;

On then, Christian soldiers,

On to victory!

Hell’s foundations quiver

At the shout of praise:

Brothers, lift your voices,

Loud your anthems raise!

Like a mighty army

Moves the Church of God:

Brothers, we are treading

Where the saints have trod;

We are not divided,

All one Body we—

One in faith and Spirit,

One eternally.

Crowns and thrones may perish,

Kingdoms rise and wane;

But the Church of Jesus

Constant will remain.

Gates of hell can never

’Gainst the Church prevail;

We have Christ’s own promise,

Which can never fail.

Onward, then, ye people!

Join our happy throng;

Blend with ours your voices

In the triumph song.

Glory, laud, and honor

Unto Christ, the King;

This through countless ages

Men and angels sing.

For more lyrics and stories, visit popular and old hymns History.

Onward Christian Soldiers Hymn Video

Below is a video of the Gaither Homecoming choir singing, "Onward Christian Soldiers."

Amazing Grace Hymn Story and Lyrics

Amazing Grace Hymn Story

Amazing Grace is a gospel hymn that was written by John Newton who was a former slave trader. This gospel hymn is commonly associated with the African-American community. 

The gospel hymn talks about Newton’s life story from his early days when he was forced into joining the Royal navy until the time when he decided to settle in religion. 

John Newton had joined the navy in 1743 after he was captured and forced to join while visiting his friends.

In 1745, while in the navy en route to India he rebelled against the discipline of the Royal navy and deserted. He was captured and was flogged and put in leg irons.

Following this incident and humiliation John Newton actually considered murdering the sea captain and committing suicide by throwing himself overboard at sea.

He later convinced the sea captain to discharge him to a slave ship.

He was transferred to Pegasus a slave-trading ship bound for West Africa. As in the navy, the freethinking and rebellious John Newton did not get along with the crew of Pegasus and was left in West Africa with Amos Clowe, a slave dealer. 

Amos Clowe handed John Newton to his African mistress Princess Peye who mistreated him as she did the other slaves. John Newton wrote of this time as, "once an infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in West Africa".

He was later rescued in 1748 by a sea captain sent by his father to search for him. He returned to England on a ship called Greyhound.

During the voyage to England, a violent storm struck his vessel off the coast that he decided to call upon God for help. This was the moment when he converted to Christianity.

From that point on, he avoided profanity, gambling, and drinking but he continued his involvement in the slave trade.

He, however, had become sympathetic to the slaves because of the time he spent in slavery in West Africa.

He is reported to have made at least three slave trading trips to West Africa after his return to England. He only stopped after suffering from a stroke in 1754. He however now promoted the humane treatment of the slaves and the crew.

Decades later around 1780 he joined the Committee for the Abolition of Slave Trade. During the 1780s he wrote "Thoughts Upon the African Slave Trade". 

In it he states; "So much light has been thrown upon the subject, by many able pens; and so many respectable persons have already engaged to use their utmost influence, for the suppression of a traffic, which contradicts the feelings of humanity; that it is hoped, this stain of our National character will soon be wiped out."

He further wrote in the book,. ""a business at which my heart now shudders,"

This paper was written to help William Wilberforce who was leading the battle against the slave trade. It was shared with the members of parliament in Westminster.

This sad chapter of slave trading in his life recollection never left him that when in his old age it was suggested that he retire, he responded, "I cannot stop. What? Shall the old African blasphemer stop while he can speak?"

John Newton

Amazing Grace Hymn Lyrics

Amazing grace! how sweet the sound,

That saved a wretch; like me!

I once was lost, but now am found,

Was blind, but now I see.

’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,

And grace my fears relieved;

How precious did that grace appear

The hour I first believed!

The Lord hath promised good to me,

His word my hope secures;

He will my shield and portion be

As long as life endures.

When we’ve been there ten thousand years,

Bright shining as the sun,

We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise

Than when we first begun.

For more lyrics and stories visit Popular and Old Hymns History.

Amazing Grace Hymn Video

Below Wintley Phipps gives a beautiful rendition of this hymn, Amazing Grace.

Old Southern Gospel Hymns

Most of the old gospel hymns are still being sung today in the twenty-first century. There are many awesome old southern gospel hymns, which were composed in the 70s and before. 

It is difficult to rate the songs from the best to the worst because all of them were a hit in their day.

The southern gospel hymns someone of the most beautiful and powerful songs, which have ever been written. Most of them were derived from the Bible whereas some were written according to one’s personal experience. 

Mostly, the experiences were ones, which tested the faith of individuals. They found comfort in singing to Christ Jesus and this is how hymn songs came about. Some of the examples of the commonly known hymn songs are as follows;

1. Because He lives

Bill and Gloria Gaither

This is one of the southern hymn songs that are well known. It was written by Bill and Gloria Gaither, who are some of the most influential southern gospel musicians in the world. 

Gaither is received well wherever he goes and his song “Because He Lives” is about the living savior. This hymn song is sung and is found in many Christian church hymnals all over the world.

2. Stand up for Jesus

This hymn was written by George Duffield Jr in 1858. The hymn “Stand Up for Jesus” was based on the dying words of Dudley Tyng who had died from wounds sustained in a farm accident.

A few days after the accident Dudley Tyng told his father, "Tell my brethren of the ministry, wherever you meet them, to stand up for Jesus."

At the funeral of Dudley, Duffield preached from Ephesians 6:14, "Stand firm, wearing the whole armor of God", and ended it by reciting this hymn he had written as a tribute.

Duffield was an associate of Dudley Tyng and supported him in the revival of evangelicalism in Pennslyvania.

Dudley Tyng had recently been expelled from an Episcopal congregation for speaking against slavery.

Duffield was also an inspiring preacher who led many people to Christ.

In addition to that, Duffield followed the bible to the letter and was against slavery-like his friend, Dudley Tyng. Their opposition to slavery was very divisive in those days. It made some happy and angered others in equal measure.

3. Count your Blessings

This is a popular song written by Irving Berlin. He wrote the song from his personal experience after the doctors could not treat his insomnia, which resulted from a form of stress, and asked him to try “counting his blessings.”

This hymn reminds us to be grateful for the small things that God has blessed us with, and stop overlooking them. All we have to say is thank you because not everyone is lucky to have the blessings that we have received.

4. Great is thy Faithfulness 

This is a popular Christian hymn written by Thomas Chisholm and derived from the Old Testament, in the book of Lamentations 3:23. After writing the song, he sent it to Kansas, where it was received by William Runyan, who in turn set the poem into music.

The song gained popularity because it was commonly used in international crusades and in Universities.

5. When the Saints go marching in

Despite the fact that this song originated as a Christian hymn, it is popularly played by the jazz bands and recorded by Louis Armstrong. The song is often confused with another hymn which looks similar known as “when the saints are marching in” by Katherine Purvis.

The origin of the song is quite unclear because there are other songs that people think are the same with this one yet they are completely different and written by different people.

It is believed that the original song begins with “When all the saints come marching in” and jazz bands sing it with modern lyrics which begins with “when the saints go marching in”.

This controversy has brought about confusion on the song’s originality.

6. Just as I Am 

The Christian gospel hymn, written by Charlotte Elliot first appeared on Christian Remembrance in around 1836. This song, later on, became the altar call song in Billy Graham’s crusades and even in the twentieth-century churches.

Graham used the song’s title in writing his autobiography and was later sung by Michael Smith as a tribute to Billy Graham.

7. He’s got the whole world in His hands

As seen from the name of this gospel hymn, the Lord Jesus Christ owns everything in this world and sees everything from heaven. This gospel hymn is a traditional African American hymn published in the early 1920’s.

The song is mostly used in teaching children more about the Bible and the nature of God. It is one of the gospel hymns that is still being used today.

8. I will sing the wondrous story

Singing about the wondrous story of the Christ who died for us reminds us of how gracious and merciful God is to everyone. This song assures every believer of eternal life in heaven through the parables and the teachings of Jesus Christ.

In addition to that, the gospel hymn also portrays how God pardons people and gives second chances to those who lost their way. This is evidently seen from the line which says “I was lost but Jesus found me”.

He never leaves our side and is always with us, guiding our paths and showing us the right way to follow.

For more strories and hymn lyrics visit here.

Come Unto Me, Ye Weary Hymn Story and Lyrics

Come Unto Me, Ye Weary Hymn Story

This hymn was written by William Chatterton Dix in 1867.

William Chatterton Dix was born on June 14, 1837, in Bristol England. He was the son of John Dix, a surgeon, who wrote The Life of Chatterton the poet. He was educated at Bristol Grammar School.

He wrote hymns and carols during his lifetime on earth.

It is based on Matthew 11:28, "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest".

In talking of this hymn, Dix says, "I was ill and depressed at the time, and it was almost to idle away the hours that I wrote the hymn. I had been ill for many weeks and felt weary and faint, and the hymn really expresses the languidness of the body from which I was suffering at the time. Soon after its composition, I recovered, and I always look back to that hymn as the turning point in my illness."

William Chatterton Dix

Come Unto Me Ye Weary Hymn Lyrics

1 "Come unto me, ye weary,

and I will give you rest."

O blessed voice of Jesus,

which comes to cheer the night!

It tells of benediction,

of pardon, grace, and peace,

of joy that hath no ending,

of love which cannot cease.

2 "Come unto me, dear children,

and I will give you light."

O loving voice of Jesus,

which comes to cheer the night!

Our hearts were filled with sadness,

and we had lost our way;

but morning brings us gladness,

and songs the break of day.

3 "Come unto me, ye fainting, and I will give you life."

O peaceful voice of Jesus,

which comes to end our strife!

The foe is stern and eager,

the fight is fierce and long;

but thou hast made us mighty,

and stronger than the strong.

4 "And whosoever cometh

I will not cast him out."

O patient love of Jesus,

which drives away our doubt;

which calls us, very sinners,

unworthy though we be,

of love so free and boundless,

to come, dear Lord, to thee!

For more stories and lyrics visit popular and old hymn history.

Come Unto Me Ye Weary Video.

Behold the Glories of the Lamb Hymn Story and Lyrics

Behold the Glories of the Lamb Hymn Story

This is Isaac Watts' first-ever hymn. Isaac Watts was born in 1674. He wrote this around 1688. He was therefore only a teenager when he wrote this hymn.

When Isaac Watts was born congregation singing involved chanting the psalms direct from the bible. Most people believed that any composition would not be inspired.

Before this hymn was written Isaac Watts argued with his father that singing only Psalms made him miss important New Testament truth. He, therefore, began composing his own hymns.

He is said to have composed hymns on a weekly basis for his congregation.

Considering that he was only a teenager, it is amazing to note that he appeared to have in-depth knowledge of the scripture. He appears to have studied the bible quite a lot judging by the scriptures employed in this song.

Isaac Watts

Behold the Glories of the Lamb Hymn Lyrics

Behold the glories of the Lamb

Amidst His Father’s throne.

Prepare new honors for His name,

And songs before unknown.

Let elders worship at His feet,

The Church adore around,

With vials full of odors sweet,

And harps of sweeter sound.

Those are the prayers of the saints,

And these the hymns they raise;

Jesus is kind to our complaints,

He loves to hear our praise.

Eternal Father, who shall look

Into Thy secret will?

Who but the Son should take that Book

And open every seal?

He shall fulfill Thy great decrees,

The Son deserves it well;

Lo, in His hand the sovereign keys

Of Heav’n, and death, and hell!

Now to the Lamb that once was slain

Be endless blessings paid;

Salvation, glory, joy remain

Forever on Thy head.

Thou hast redeemed our souls with blood,

Hast set the prisoner free;

Hast made us kings and priests to God,

And we shall reign with Thee.

The worlds of nature and of grace

Are put beneath Thy power;

Then shorten these delaying days,

And bring the promised hour.

For more lyrics and stories visit popular and old hymn history.

Behold the Glories of the Lamb Video.

Be Present At Our Table Hymn Story and Lyrics

Be Present At Our Table Lord Hymn Story.

This hymn was written by John Cennick, 1741. The tune is attributed to Louis Bourgeois.

It is based on Matthew 6:11, "Give us this day our daily bread."

John Cennick was born at Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom in 1717. He was a friend of John Wesley and George Whitefield and assisted them in their work. 

He split from John Wesley on doctrinal grounds and sided with George Whitefield. He later joined the Moravians and went to work in German and the North of Ireland. 

He died in London on July 4, 1755

He wrote other hymns besides this post's hymn. The other hymns he wrote include, "Lo He Cometh, countless trumpets"; Children of the heavenly King; and "Ere I sleep, for every favor".

John Cennick

Be Present At Our Table Lord Hymn Lyrics

Be present at our table, Lord;

Be here and everywhere adored;

Thy creatures bless, and grant that we

May feast in paradise with Thee.

We thank Thee, Lord, for this our food,

For life and health and every good;

By Thine own hand may we be fed;

Give us each day our daily bread.

We thank Thee, Lord, for this our good,

But more because of Jesus’ blood;

Let manna to our souls be giv’n,

The Bread of Life sent down from Heav’n.

For more lyrics and stories visit popular and old hymn history.

Be Present At Our Table Lord Video

My Faith Looks Up To Thee Hymn Story and Lyrics

My Faith Look Up To Thee Hymn Story

This famous hymn is the product of Ray Palmer a pastor. It is one of the most loved hymns produced by an American Christian.

Ray Palmer was born in Little Compton in 1808 and grew up in Boston Massachusetts. He attended Yale University. He spent most of his life on earth as a minister of the word of God.

This hymn was written when Ray Palmer was only 22. Ray is quoted as saying "The words of the hymn were born of my own soul".

This song was written when he was so overwhelmed by all that he owed to the Lord. It was this expression of this debt that led to the words of this hymn. It was an expression of his convictions about faith.

He wrote this as a poem not intending that it will be turned into a song. 

It is said that was so absorbed mentally in writing this song that he cried when he finished the final line. He copied the words into a book and used them frequently for meditation.

The music of this hymn was added by in 1830 by musician Lowell Mason (1792-1872). They met by chance in Boston an Mason asked Palmer if he had anything that could be included in "Spiritual Songs for Social Worship".

It was then that Palmer produced which he had been using for his meditation and gave it to Lowell Mason. That is how this song was a private poem about faith that ended up in a song.

In the book, "A Treasure Of Hymns", there is a story that is connected to this hymn. It is said that during the American civil war, eight soldiers met in a tent to pray. They were all worried about their lives that they decided to send a message of comfort to their families in case they died. They all copied the final stanza of this hymn which each one signed. The next morning seven of the soldiers were killed.

Mason once told Palmer, “you may live many years and do many good things, but I think you will be best known to posterity as the author of ‘My Faith Looks Up to Thee.’”

Ray Palmer

My Faith Looks Up To Thee Hymn Lyrics

My faith looks up to Thee,

Thou Lamb of Calvary,

Savior Divine;

Now hear me while I pray;

Take all my guilt away;

Oh, let me from this day

Be wholly Thine.

May Thy rich grace impart

Strength to my fainting heart,

My zeal inspire;

As Thou hast died for me,

Oh, may my love to Thee

Pure, warm, and changeless be,

A living fire.

While life’s dark maze I tread,

And griefs around me spread,

Be Thou my Guide;

Bid darkness turn to day,

Wipe sorrow’s tears away,

Nor let me ever stray

From Thee aside.

All thru life’s transient dream,

Until death’s sullen stream

Shall o’er me roll,

Blest Savior, with Thy love,

Fear and distrust remove;

Make me Thy grace to prove

Transform my soul.

For more lyrics and stories visit popular and old hymn history.

My Faith Looks Up To Thee Hymn Video.

Bill & Gloria Gaither - My Faith Looks Up to Thee

Jesus The Very Thought Of Thee Hymn Lyrics and Story

Jesus The Very Thought Of Thee Hymn Story

This hymn was originally written by one of the most influential Christians of Europe in his day, Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153). 

He had the ear of kings and influential people of his day. His sermons and writings were well regarded for centuries. He helped in the establishment of monasteries.

This hymn was first translated into English by Edward Caswall (1818-1878). The music is added by John Bacchus Dykes (1823-1876).

Edward Caswall

Jesus the Very Thought of Thee Hymn Lyrics

Jesus, the very thought of Thee

With sweetness fills my breast;

But sweeter far Thy face to see,

And in Thy presence rest.

Nor voice can sing, nor heart can frame,

Nor can the memory find

A sweeter sound than Thy blest Name,

O Savior of mankind!

O Hope of every contrite heart,

O Joy of all the meek,

To those who fall, how kind Thou art!

How good to those who seek!

But what to those who find? Ah, this

Nor tongue nor pen can show;

The love of Jesus, what it is

None but His loved ones know.

O Jesus! light of all below!

Thou fount of life and fire!

Surpassing all the joys we know,

And all we can desire.

No other source have we but Thee,

Soul-thirst to satisfy.

Exhaustless spring! the waters free!

All other streams are dry.

Jesus, our only Joy be Thou,

As Thou our Prize wilt be;

Jesus, be Thou our Glory now,

And through eternity.

For more lyrics and stories visit Popular and Old Hymns History

Jesus The Very Thought of Thee Video.

I Heard The Voice Of Jesus Say Hymn Story and Lyrics

I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say Hymn Story

Horatius Bonar was born in 1808 in Edinburgh, Scotland. He was the son of an elder in the Church of Scotland.

Bonar himself later entered the ministry and became the pastor of the North Parish in the town of Kelso.

Soon after Bonar became a minister there was a schism in the Established Church of Scotland. Over four hundred ministers including Bonar broke away and formed the Free Church of Scotland.

In those days music in the church was made up of singing the Psalms and it was falling out of fashion especially with the youth. To make the music more palatable for the youth, Bonar started composing songs for the youth. Eventually, he also composed songs for the elders.

In composing the songs Bonar used simpler lyrics and used popular tunes of his day.

It was while he was still at Kelso that he composed, " I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say". This is perhaps his most popular hymn that continues to be sung in most of the English speaking Christian church.

Horatius Bonar

I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say Hymn Lyrics

I heard the voice of Jesus say, “Come unto Me and rest;

Lay down, thou weary one, lay down Thy head upon My breast.”

I came to Jesus as I was, weary and worn and sad;

I found in Him a resting place, and He has made me glad.

I heard the voice of Jesus say, “Behold, I freely give

The living water; thirsty one, stoop down, and drink, and live.”

I came to Jesus, and I drank of that life giving stream;

My thirst was quenched, my soul revived, and now I live in Him.

I heard the voice of Jesus say, “I am this dark world’s Light;

Look unto Me, thy morn shall rise, and all thy day be bright.”

I looked to Jesus, and I found in Him my Star, my Sun;

And in that light of life I’ll walk, till traveling days are done.

For more stories and lyrics visit Popular and Old Hymns History.

I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say Video.

O For A Closer Walk With God Hymn Story and Lyrics

O For A Closer Walk With God Hymn History

William Cowper is the author of this hymn, "O for a Closer Walk With God" which he composed in 1769.

The inspiration for this hymn was Genesis 5:24, "And Enock walked with God: and he was not; for God took him." Another was Amos 3:3, "Godliness is walking with God: which shows reconciliation to God, for can two walk together except they be agreed?"

This hymn was written during the serious illness of his beloved aunt, Mrs. Unwin. In a letter written following day after composing this song William Cowper says the following:

"She is the chief of blessings I have met within my journey since the Lord was pleased to call me... Her illness has been a sharp trial for me. Oh, that it may have been a sanctified effect, that I may rejoice to surrender up to the Lord my dearest comforts, the moment He may require them... I began to compose the verses yesterday morning before daybreak but fell asleep at the end of the first two lines: When I awakened, the third and fourth were whispered to my heart in a way which I have often experienced."

So was written this hymn that continues to bless us all in our walk with God.

William Cowper was a great friend of another famous musician of his time, John Newton. They struck their relationship when Cowper moved to the village of Olney. 

They collaborated in producing, "Olney Hymns Hymnal",  with Cowper producing sixty-seven of the 349 hymns and the remainder came from Newton.

They usually met at his aunt, Mrs. Unwin place to work on their hymns when he was in Olney.

William Cowper

O For A Closer Walk With God Hymn Lyrics

O for a closer walk with God,

A calm and heavenly frame,

A light to shine upon the road

That leads me to the Lamb!

Where is the blessedness I knew,

When first I saw the Lord?

Where is the soul refreshing view

Of Jesus, and His Word?

What peaceful hours I once enjoyed!

How sweet their memory still!

But they have left an aching void

The world can never fill.

Return, O holy Dove, return,

Sweet messenger of rest;

I hate the sins that made Thee mourn

And drove Thee from my breast.

The dearest idol I have known,

Whate’er that idol be

Help me to tear it from Thy throne,

And worship only Thee.

So shall my walk be close with God,

Calm and serene my frame;

So purer light shall mark the road

That leads me to the Lamb.

For more stories and lyrics visit Popular and Old Hymns Histories.

Below is a video featuring this song.

Another Note:

William Cowper was a very complex being who suffered from depression for most of his life. It is said that at one point he almost committed suicide. Yet he desired to bless others with these beautiful songs that continue to bless us. God uses weak human beings as his vessel. He does not need perfect beings.

All Things Bright And Beautiful Hymn Story and Lyrics

All Things Bright And Beautiful Hymn Story

All Things Bright and Beautiful is hymn meant for children. It was first published in "Hymns for Little Children".

The words of this hymn are from the pen of Cecil Frances Alexander. This was her attempt to simplify the Apostle Creed for children. It tries to explain, "I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and Earth" and other parts.

Cecil Francis Alexander was born in 1823. She composed hundreds of Christian hymns in her lifetime.

Proceeds from her publications were used to support the Irish school of mutes. She helped many people in need in her lifetime and when she died in 1895 she was greatly missed especially the poor and needy.

Cecil Frances Alexander

All Things Bright And Beautiful Hymn Lyrics

Refrain:

All things bright and beautiful,

All creatures great and small,

All things wise and wonderful:

The Lord God made them all.

Each little flow’r that opens,

Each little bird that sings,

He made their glowing colors,

He made their tiny wings.

The purple-headed mountains,

The river running by,

The sunset and the morning

That brightens up the sky.

The cold wind in the winter,

The pleasant summer sun,

The ripe fruits in the garden,

He made them every one.

The tall trees in the greenwood,

The meadows where we play,

The rushes by the water,

To gather every day.

He gave us eyes to see them,

And lips that we might tell

How great is God Almighty,

Who has made all things well.

For more stories and lyrics please visit Popular and Old Hymns History.

Below is a video

King's College Choir Cambridge singing "All things Bright and Beautiful".

Lo He Comes With Clouds Descending Hymn Lyrics and Story

Lo He Comes With Clouds Descending Story

The text for this hymn is from John Cennick (1718 - 1755) and Charles Wesley (1707 - 1788). The tune used for this hymn is from the song Helmsley.

It was first composed by John Cennick in his hymn titled, "Lo! He Cometh, countless Trumpet" which was first published in 1752. This song was later substantially revised by Charles Wesly in 1758.

It is based on the Second coming of Jesus Christ as presented in Revelation 1:7, "Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen."

John Cennick

Lo He Comes With Clouds Descending Lyrics

1. Lo, he comes with clouds descending,

once for favoured sinners slain;

thousand thousand saints attending

swell the triumph of his train:

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

God appears on earth to reign.

2. Every eye shall now behold him

robed in dreadful majesty;

those who set at naught and sold him,

pierced and nailed him to the tree,

deeply wailing, deeply wailing, deeply wailing,

shall the true Messiah see.

3. Those dear tokens of his passion

still his dazzling body bears,

cause of endless exultation

to his ransomed worshippers:

with what rapture, with what rapture, with what rapture,

gaze we on those glorious scars!

4. Yea, Amen, let all adore thee,

high on thine eternal throne;

Saviour, take the power and glory,

claim the kingdom for thine own:

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Thou shalt reign and thou alone.

For more links to hymn lyrics and stories visit Popular and Old Hymns History.

Below is a video of Ely Cathedral Choir of the  United Kingdom singing this song.

Tell Me the Old, Old Story Hymn Story and Lyrics

Tell Me the Old, Old Story Hymn Story

I first heard this song, "Tell me the old, old story" through a friend's cassette tape some twenty years ago and I fell in love with it immediately. It became one of my favorite hymns ever.

It is a simple yet very beautiful song about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We all need to hear this old old story that has brought a smile on dying patients and brought peace to millions.

The words of this hymn, "Tell me the old, old story were written by Katherine Hankey. 

Katherine Hankey was born in 1834 at Clapham, Surrey, England. She was the daughter of a banker.

During her lifetime she was a member of the Clapham Sect. This group fought slavery and funded Christian missionaries. 

She wrote the words of this hymn while recovering from a serious illness in London. 

As luck would have it, the famous musician George Washington Doane heard the poem being recited by Major General Russell in 1867. It was him who went on to add the music to these beautiful words. 

And because of that we now have this beautiful song that we have all come to love.

Katherine Hankey

Tell Me the Old, Old Story Lyrics

Tell me the old, old story

Of unseen things above,

Of Jesus and His glory,

Of Jesus and His love.

Tell me the story simply,

As to a little child,

For I am weak and weary,

And helpless and defiled.

Refrain: Tell me the old, old story,

Tell me the old, old story,

Tell me the old, old story,

Of Jesus and His love.

Tell me the story slowly,

That I may take it in,

That wonderful redemption,

God’s remedy for sin.

Tell me the story often,

For I forget so soon;

The early dew of morning

Has passed away at noon.

Refrain

Tell me the story softly,

With earnest tones and grave;

Remember I’m the sinner

Whom Jesus came to save.

Tell me the story always,

If you would really be,

In any time of trouble,

A comforter to me.

Refrain

Tell me the same old story

When you have cause to fear

That this world’s empty glory

Is costing me too dear.

Yes, and when that world’s glory

Is dawning on my soul,

Tell me the old, old story:

Christ Jesus makes thee whole.

Refrain

For more stories and lyrics of popular hymns visit Popular and Old Hymns History

Others hymns that cames from Hankey's poems include, "Advent Tell Us, Christ Near"; "I Love to Tell the Story"; and "I Saw Him Leave His Father's Throne".

Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise Hymn Story and Lyrics

The words of this hymn were written by Walter Chalmers Smith in 1867. The tune used is that of a traditional Welsh ballad.

Walter Chalmers Smith was born on December 5, 1824, in Aberdeen, Scotland. 

He studies theology at Edinburgh. His first ministerial assignment was in London at the Free Scotch Church in Chadwell Street, Islington where he was ordained.

He later in 1876 returned to Edinburgh where he pastored Edinburgh Free High Church.

It is based on the words found in I Timothy 1:17, 17 "Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

It is a praise and worship hymn. It praises our God who is eternal, immortal, invisible and all-wise. It is one of those hymns that makes one contemplate the greatness of our God.

This is a being before whom angels who have never sinned veil their faces. He is a holy God.

Walter Chalmers Smith

Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise Hymn Lyrics

Immortal, invisible, God only wise,

In light inaccessible hid from our eyes,

Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,

Almighty, victorious, Thy great name we praise.

Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light,

Nor wanting, nor wasting, Thou rulest in might;

Thy justice like mountains high soaring above

Thy clouds which are fountains of goodness and love.

To all life Thou givest, to both great and small;

In all life Thou livest, the true life of all;

We blossom and flourish as leaves on the tree,

And wither and perish, but nought changeth Thee.

Great Father of Glory, pure Father of Light

Thine angels adore Thee, all veiling their sight;

All laud we would render, O help us to see:

’Tis only the splendor of light hideth Thee.

Immortal, invisible, God only wise,

In light inaccessible hid from our eyes,

Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,

Almighty, victorious, Thy great name we praise.

For more stories and lyrics visit here.

Below is a video of a congregation singing this song.

Marvelous Grace (Grace Greater than Our Sin)

Marvelous Grace/Grace Greater Than Our Sin Story

The author of this song, Marvelous Grace, is Julia Harriet Johnston. The tune was added by Daniel Brink Towner.

Julia was born in 1849 in Salineville, Ohio and passed away in 1919 in Peoria, Illinois. Her father was pastor of the First Presbyterian church.

She was one of the most prolific hymn writers of her day. She is reported to have composed nearly five hundred hymns or songs. Besides writing songs she also wrote materials for Sunday school children.

The hymns that she wrote include, In the Child Garden; O Changeless Word; Saving Grace;

There’s a Picture Bright and Fair, and There’s a Sweet and Blessed Story

One of the major differences between Christianity and other religions is a matter of grace. 

Christians believe that there is nothing we can do to inherit the kingdom of God. We are saved by grace alone.

We get this grace by accepting the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary as our own. We believe that without the cross there would be no hope of salvation.

Man sinned and deserved death. Christ came and took our place by becoming a man and died on the cross to pay our penalty. He was the only one who was qualified to die for us as he was the sinless son of God.

This is the message of this song. Grace exceeds all our sin and guilt. Grace that will pardon and cleanse within.

May we all accept this sacrifice by surrendering our lives to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Julia Johnston

Marvelous Grace/Grace Greater Than Our Sin Lyrics

1 Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,

Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!

Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured,

There where the blood of the Lamb was spilled.

Refrain:

Grace, grace, God’s grace,

Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;

Grace, grace, God’s grace,

Grace that is greater than all our sin!

2 Sin and despair, like the sea waves cold,

Threaten the soul with infinite loss;

Grace that is greater, yes, grace untold,

Points to the refuge, the mighty cross. [Refrain]

3 Dark is the stain that we cannot hide;

What can we do to wash it away?

Look! There is flowing a crimson tide,

Brighter than snow you may be today. [Refrain]

4 Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,

Freely bestowed on all who believe!

You that are longing to see His face,

Will you this moment His grace receive? [Refrain]

For more links of lyrics and stories of popular hymns visit here.

Below is a video of a choir singing this song, Marvelous Grace/Grace Greater Than Our Sin.

He Hideth My Soul Hymn Story and Lyrics

He Hideth My Soul Hymn Story

This hymn is a collaboration between Fanny Jane Crosby and William James Kirkpatrick. William Kirkpatrick brought an already prepared tune and asked Fanny Jane Crosby to provide words to fit the tune.

Fanny Crosby was born in 1820. 

At the age of 6, she lost her sight after a doctor applied the wrong medication to treat her eye infection. This, however, did not prevent her from fulfilling her potential

In spite of her blindness she wrote numerous hymns that continue to bless Christians all over the world. It is estimated that she wrote over eight thousand songs during her lifetime.

William J Kirkpatrick

He Hideth My Soul Lyrics

A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord,

A wonderful Savior to me;

He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock,

Where rivers of pleasure I see.

He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock

That shadows a dry, thirsty land;

He hideth my life in the depths of His love,

And covers me there with His hand,

And covers me there with His hand.

A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord,

He taketh my burden away;

He holdeth me up and I shall not be moved,

He giveth me strength as my day.

With numberless blessings each moment He crowns,

And, filled with His fullness divine,

I sing in my rapture, oh, glory to God,

For such a Redeemer as mine!

When clothed in His brightness, transported I rise

To meet Him in clouds of the sky,

His perfect salvation, His wonderful love,

I’ll shout with the millions on high

For more links for more stories and lyrics visit here.

He Hideth My Soul Video.

BESY Choir singing He hideth my soul

What A Wonderful Savior Hymn Story and Lyrics

What A Wonderful Savior Hymn Story

The author of this hymn, "What a Wonderful Savior" is Elisha Hoffman. Hoffman was born in 1839 and died in 1929. He studied for the ministry at Union seminary in Pennsylvania. 

He was a member of the Presbyterian church.

As a minister, he served many churches in Cleveland and Grafton in the 1880s. Before that, he worked with the Evangelical Association's publishing arm for eleven years.

He composed at least two thousand songs. He also edited a few hymnals.

Some of the songs that he composed include, " Leaning on the everlasting arms" and "Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing power".

His goal was to create songs for congregational singing. 

Elisha A Hoffman

What A Wonderful Savior Lyrics

1 Christ has for sin atonement made -

What a wonderful Savior!

We are redeemed, the price is paid -

What a wonderful Savior!

Refrain

What a wonderful Savior is Jesus, my Jesus!

What a wonderful Savior is Jesus, my Lord!

2 I praise Him for the cleansing blood -

What a wonderful Savior!

That reconciled my soul to God -

What a wonderful Savior! [Refrain]

3 He cleansed my heart from all its sin -

What a wonderful Savior!

And now He reigns and rules therein -

What a wonderful Savior! [Refrain]

4 He gives me overcoming pow'r -

What a wonderful Savior!

And triumph in each trying hour -

What a wonderful Savior! [Refrain]

For more links to more stories and lyrics of popular hymns visit here.

Below is a video of a congregation singing What A Wonderful Savior