Discover the powerful message of grace in the hymn Grace That is Greater Than All Our Sin. This beloved worship song emphasizes themes of God’s boundless grace, forgiveness, and the transformative power of faith in overcoming sin and guilt.
VERSE 1
Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary’s mount out-poured–
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt.
CHORUS
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!
VERSE 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.
VERSE 3
Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe!
All who are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive?
Story Behind the Song
In 1911, Julia Harriette Johnston, a Presbyterian teacher and author, penned the lyrics to “Grace Greater Than Our Sin.” Born in 1849 in Ohio, Johnston moved to Peoria, Illinois, where she became deeply involved in church activities, serving as a Sunday school superintendent and teacher for over four decades.
She authored numerous hymns and books, with “Grace Greater Than Our Sin” remaining her most renowned work. [1]
Daniel B. Towner, a distinguished Methodist musician and director at Moody Bible Institute, composed the melody for this hymn. Towner’s association with the institute led to the tune being named “MOODY” in his honor. [2]
The hymn was first published in 1911 in Towner’s collection “Hymns Tried and True.” It draws inspiration from Romans 5:20b, which states, “But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound.” [3]
Over the years, “Grace Greater Than Our Sin” has become a cherished hymn, celebrated for its powerful message of God’s boundless grace overcoming human sin. Its enduring popularity underscores its profound impact on Christian worship and its ability to convey the depth of divine forgiveness.
Embracing the Power of Grace
Marvelous grace is at the heart of this song, encapsulating the essence of God’s unmerited favor toward humanity. “Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt” reveals the transformative power of grace, illustrating that no sin is too great for God’s forgiveness.
Romans 5:20 affirms this truth, stating, “But where sin increased, grace increased all the more.” This principle reassures believers that God’s grace is more abundant than any sin they may carry.
“Grace that will pardon and cleanse within” highlights the inner work of grace, emphasizing that it not only forgives but also purifies the believer’s heart. This aligns with 1 John 1:9, which promises, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
The lyrics encourage believers to embrace this cleansing, reassuring them that grace brings about true spiritual renewal.
“Grace that is greater than all our sin” reinforces the supremacy of God’s grace over human failings. Ephesians 2:8-9 underscores this concept, stating, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
The lyrics remind listeners that grace is not based on human effort but is a gift freely given by God, underscoring the centrality of faith in the Christian life.
“Freely bestowed on all who believe” invites a response from the listener, emphasizing that grace is available to everyone who places their faith in Christ. John 3:16 assures believers of this promise, stating, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
This lyric highlights the inclusivity of God’s grace, inviting all to accept His gift of salvation.
In conclusion, the song presents a powerful message of grace that aligns with biblical truths. It emphasizes the overwhelming nature of God’s love and forgiveness, encouraging believers to receive and respond to His grace.
As they reflect on these lyrics, they are reminded of the profound impact grace has on their lives, inviting them to live in the light of this truth. Grace, indeed, transforms and renews, urging every believer to accept its life-changing power.
More Related Bible verses on Embracing the Power of Grace
For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8 GNB
But where sin increased, grace increased all the more. Romans 5:20 GNB
The Lord is merciful and loving, slow to become angry and full of constant love. Psalm 103:8 GNB
He saved us, not because of the good things we did, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins and gave us a new life through the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:5 GNB
I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 GNB
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Bible Readings for Worship
- Bible Verses on Pursuing Our Dreams
- Jesus Our Living Hope
- Like a Tree Planted by Streams of Water (Psalm 1:1-6)
More Free Downloads
- Your Grace is Enough (Chris Tomlin)
- I Believe (Phil Wickham)
- Amazing Grace (Hymn) John Newton
- Grace To Grace (Hillsong)
- If The Lord (Bethel Music)
Related themes you might want to include Grace That Is Greater Than All Our Sin in your list of songs for worship that centered around Holiness and Purity, Honoring God, Trusting God by Faith
Grace That Greater Than All Our Sin lyrics by Julia Harriette Johnston and music by Daniel B. Towner (1960) Public Domain
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