O Savior Precious Savior (Hymn)

O Savior, Precious Savior is a Christian hymn that exalts Jesus Christ as the supreme Lord, the bringer of salvation, and the revelation of God’s love. This timeless worship song praises His name above all others, declaring His grace, power, and eternal reign.

VERSE 1
O Savior, precious Savior,
Whom yet unseen we love,
O name of might and favor,
All other names above;
We worship You, we bless You,
To You alone we sing;
We praise You, and confess You
Our holy Lord and King.

VERSE 2
O bringer of salvation,
Who wondrously has wrought,
Yourself the revelation
Of love beyond our thought;
We worship You, we bless You,
To you alone we sing;
We praise You, and confess You
our gracious Lord and King.

VERSE 3
In You all fullness dwelling,
All grace and power outpours:
The glory all-excelling,
O Son of God, is Yours;
We worship You, we bless You,
To You alone we sing;
We praise You, and confess You
Our glorious Lord and King.

VERSE 4
O grant the consummation
Of this our song above
In endless adoration
And everlasting love;
Then shall we praise and bless You
Where perfect praises ring,
And evermore confess You
Our Savior and our King.

Story Behind the Song

Frances Ridley Havergal, a prolific hymn writer of the 19th century, penned “O Savior, Precious Savior” in 1870. Known for her deep personal faith and poetic talent, Havergal sought to express her devotion to Jesus Christ through her hymns.

This particular hymn reflects her desire to exalt the Savior, even though He is “unseen,” capturing the essence of 1 Peter 1:8, which speaks of loving Christ without having seen Him. [1]

The hymn’s lyrics are rich in theological depth, acknowledging Jesus as the “Bringer of salvation” and the “revelation of love beyond our thought.” These lines emphasize the mystery and magnitude of Christ’s redemptive work, themes prevalent in Havergal’s writings.

Her ability to convey profound spiritual truths in simple language has made her hymns enduring favorites among Christians.[2]

The tune most commonly associated with “O Savior, Precious Savior” is “Angel’s Story,” composed by Arthur H. Mann in 1881. Mann, an English organist and composer, provided a melody that complements the hymn’s worshipful tone, enhancing its appeal in congregational settings.

The pairing of Havergal’s heartfelt lyrics with Mann’s melodic composition has solidified the hymn’s place in Christian worship traditions.[3]

Over the years, “O Savior, Precious Savior” has been included in numerous hymnals across various denominations, testifying to its widespread acceptance and the timeless relevance of its message. The hymn continues to inspire believers to offer praise and adoration to Jesus Christ, acknowledging Him as their holy Lord and King.