I Will Sing the Wondrous Story is a beloved hymn that celebrates the themes of redemption, healing, and divine presence in the life of a believer. This song emphasizes the personal relationship with Christ, highlighting His sacrifice, the freedom from sin, and the assurance of eternal life for those who trust in Him.
VERSE 1
I will sing the wondrous story
Of the Christ who died for me.
How He left His home in glory
For the cross of Calvary.
I was lost, but Jesus found me,
Found the sheep that went astray,
Threw His loving arms around me,
Drew me back into His way.
VERSE 2
I was bruised, but Jesus healed me;
Faint was I from many a fall;
Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,
But He freed me from them all.
Days of darkness still come o’er me,
Sorrow’s paths I often tread,
But the Savior still is with me;
By His hand I’m safely led.
VERSE 3
He will keep me till the river
Rolls its waters at my feet;
Then He’ll bear me safely over,
Where the loved ones I shall meet.
Yes, I’ll sing the wondrous story
Of the Christ who died for me,
Sing it with the saints in glory,
Gathered by the crystal sea.
Story Behind the Song
In 1886, Francis H. Rowley, then pastor of the First Baptist Church in North Adams, Massachusetts, was approached by Peter P. Bilhorn, a young musician assisting in the church’s ministry.
Bilhorn suggested that Rowley write a hymn for him to set to music. That night, Rowley composed the lyrics to “I Will Sing the Wondrous Story,” originally beginning with “Can’t you sing the wondrous story?”[1]
The following evening, Rowley presented the lyrics to Bilhorn, who composed the tune. The hymn was later published by Ira D. Sankey in 1887, with the opening line changed to “I will sing the wondrous story.”[2]
Peter P. Bilhorn, born in Illinois in 1865, was converted to Christianity at twenty under the preaching of D.L. Moody. He went on to compose approximately 2,000 gospel songs and designed a lightweight folding organ for evangelistic use.
His contributions to gospel music and evangelism were significant, and he passed away in Los Angeles on December 13, 1936. [3]
“I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” has since become a beloved hymn, reflecting the themes of redemption and the joy of sharing the gospel.
Its enduring popularity is a testament to the collaboration between Rowley and Bilhorn and their dedication to spreading the message of Christ through music.
Embrace Christ’s Sacrifice
This worship song presents a profound narrative of redemption, healing, and divine assurance grounded in biblical truth. “The Christ who died for me” serves as a powerful reminder of the personal nature of salvation.
Jesus’s sacrificial love on the cross emphasizes the heart of the gospel, echoing Romans 5:8, which states, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
This theme of atonement invites believers into a deeper relationship with God, fostering gratitude for His grace.
“He freed me from them all” highlights the liberation that comes through faith in Christ. This reflects the promise of freedom from sin and fear, aligning with John 8:36: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
In this line, the song affirms that believers are not just forgiven but transformed and empowered by Christ. The healing Jesus offers is both spiritual and emotional, fulfilling the prophecy found in Isaiah 53:5, which assures us that “by his wounds, we are healed.”
This healing encompasses all aspects of a believer’s life, affirming the comprehensive nature of salvation.
“He will keep me till the river” illustrates the assurance of God’s presence throughout life’s journey. This imagery captures the transition from earthly struggles to eternal life, resonating with Psalm 23:4, where David expresses confidence in God’s guidance.
The phrase signifies the hope and security that come from trusting in God, even amid trials. The promise of being kept by God extends beyond life to the assurance of meeting loved ones in eternity, reflecting the hope of resurrection as seen in John 3:16.
Each key phrase weaves together a tapestry of theological richness that reflects essential Christian beliefs. These principles uphold the Word of God and remind believers of the transformative power of faith.
The song resonates with the truths of redemption, healing, and divine presence, providing a foundation for worship and deepening the believer’s faith. Ultimately, this narrative encourages worshippers to embrace their identity in Christ and to share the wondrous story of His love with others.
In doing so, they proclaim the hope that transcends all circumstances and affirms the promise of eternal life.
More Related Bible verses on Embrace Christ’s Sacrifice
“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” – Ephesians 1:7 GNB
“But now, God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ.” – Romans 3:21-22 GNB
“For I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth.” – Job 19:25 GNB
“The Lord has redeemed his servants; no one who goes to him will be disappointed.” – Isaiah 49:23 GNB
“I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment.” – Exodus 6:6 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
- When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (Hymn)
- Nothing But The Blood (Hymn)
- We Cry Holy (Paul Wilbur)
- Hallelujah For the Cross (Chris McClarney)
- Man Of Sorrows (Hillsong)
Related themes you might want to include I will sing the wondrous story in your list of songs for worship that centered around Holiness and Purity, Honoring God, Love for God, Obedience
I Will Sing the Wondrous Story lyrics by Francis H. Rowley and music by Peter P. Bilhorn (1886) Public Domain
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