Like many hymns, “I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” has a profound message and a wealthy history. This inspired song, written almost 140 years ago, teaches us about God’s everlasting love and the way we must always share it with the world.
The Bible tells us to sing recent songs, and we’re thankful for contemporary praise songs anointed by God that minister to churches worldwide. At the identical time, Psalms records many ancient hymns inspired by the Holy Spirit, teaching us also to value the legacy of older songs. In today’s contemporary evangelical style, older hymns have been forgotten. Yet, through these traditional songs, we will still have fun God’s inspiration and the cohesive message in praise through the years.
“I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” speaks of God’s complete work from the past to the long run, all based on his love. This is a story price telling.
What Are the Lyrics to “I Will Sing the Wondrous Story”?
Here are the lyrics:
I’ll sing the wondrous story
Of the Christ Who died for me;
How He left His home in glory
For the cross of Calvary.Refrain:
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.I used to be lost, but Jesus found me,
Found the sheep that went astray,
Threw His loving arms around me,
Drew me back into His way.I used to be bruised, but Jesus healed me,
Faint was I from many a fall,
Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,
But He freed me from all of them.Days of darkness still come o’er me,
Sorrow’s path I often tread,
But His presence still is with me;
By His guiding hand I’m led.He will keep me till the river
Rolls its waters at my feet;
Then He’ll bear me safely over,
Where the family members I shall meet.
Who Wrote “I Will Sing the Wondrous Story”?
Francis H. Rowley wrote the hymn “I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” in 1886. Born on July 25, 1854, in Hilton, New York, Rowley became a notable figure for his contributions to songs for worship and his impactful profession as a Baptist minister and animal welfare advocate.
Rowley graduated from Rochester University in 1875 and Rochester Theological Seminary in 1878. His early ministry began in small churches, but he quickly gained recognition for his passionate preaching and dedication to his congregations. By 1884, Rowley was pastor of the First Baptist Church in North Adams, Massachusetts, where he penned the famous hymn.
The inspiration for “I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” got here from Rowley’s desire to capture the essence and fullness of Christ’s redemptive work and to encourage Christians to proclaim the story of salvation. The hymn reflects a deep sense of private gratitude and a call to evangelism, themes central to Rowley’s ministry. The lyrics emphasize the wondrous nature of Christ’s sacrificial love up to now, the salvation experience, the long run redemption, and the believer’s response in singing and sharing this story. Hymns from this era commonly spanned themes from the past to the long run promise of heaven.
The song’s structure includes regular verses and a chorus-type refrain, which developed in the course of the mid to late 1800s. Previously, many hymns had single verses with perhaps a daily title repeated at the tip or starting of every verse. The repeated statement at the tip of the verses evolved into what we’d now call the “chorus” of the song, an extended refrain.
Beyond his pastoral duties, Rowley was president of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the American Humane Education Society. His work in these organizations reflected his broader concern for justice and compassion, principles that were also evident in his ministry and hymn writing.
Does “I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” Quote from the Bible?
“I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” doesn’t directly quote from the Bible but resonates with various biblical themes and passages.
The hymn’s opening lines reflect the biblical encouragement to proclaim the story of Christ’s sacrificial love, which we see in verses like Psalm 96:2-3. Like with the Great Commission, this passage instructs the believer to share God’s salvation story with others.
The hymn continues with, “How He left His home in glory / For the cross of Calvary.” These lyrics capture the essence of Christ leaving his heavenly glory to endure the cross for humanity’s sake. Passages like Philippians 2:6-8 describe Jesus’ humility and sacrifice on Good Friday.
Another line, “Yes, I’ll sing the wondrous story / Of the Christ who died for me,” aligns with passages like Revelation 5:9, about singing to Christ: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, since you were slain, and along with your blood you bought for God individuals from every tribe and language and other people and nation.” Revelation records how the heavens worship Christ, acknowledging his sacrificial death and complete redemptive work.
The hymn’s verses about Jesus’ guidance and support, comparable to “Days of darkness still come o’er me, Sorrow’s paths I often tread,” connect with Psalm 23:4: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I’ll fear no evil, for you’re with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” This demonstrates the peace of mind of God’s presence and guidance through life’s trials.
References to “I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” in Popular Culture?
The hymn stays a beloved staple in lots of Christian worship services across different denominations. Its inclusion in quite a few hymnals and songbooks attests to its enduring appeal. The lyrics, emphasizing the wondrous story of Christ’s love and sacrifice, encourage congregations to reflect on their faith and the importance of sharing the gospel. Churches often sing this hymn during services focused on evangelism, testimony, and celebrating salvation, making it a big a part of Christian liturgy.
In contemporary Christian music, artists often rework these old hymns to share the deep messages inside, like “The Wonderful Cross” by Chris Tomlin. These modern adaptations often mix traditional lyrics with recent musical styles, making the hymn accessible to a broader audience. Emu Music, an Australian Christian music ministry known for producing contemporary worship songs, has created a modern version of the hymn “I Will Sing the Wondrous Story.” Their adaptation retains the unique hymn’s powerful message while incorporating fresh musical arrangements that appeal to today’s worshippers. Emu Music’s version contains a vibrant mix of acoustic and vocal harmonies, making it suitable for private reflection and congregational singing.
The hymn’s themes have inspired recent songs that echo its message. Modern worship songs often reference the concept of proclaiming Christ’s story and celebrating his redemptive work, aligning with the hymn’s emphasis on evangelism and testimony. “Living Hope” by Phil Wickham proclaims Christ’s victory over death and the hope He brings. “What a Beautiful Name” by Hillsong Worship highlights the ability and fantastic thing about Jesus’ name and His saving grace. “King of Kings” by Hillsong Worship narrates the gospel story from Jesus’ birth to resurrection. However, most up-to-date songs don’t have the whole span from the cross to the last word recent heaven and earth like “I Will Sing the Wonderous Story” does.
What Can We Learn from “I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” Today?
One of the important thing lessons from the hymn is the importance of sharing personal testimonies about Christ’s redemptive work. Revelation 12:11 says in regards to the Christians who overcame the Devil, “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they didn’t love their lives a lot as to shrink from death.” Our stories have power, reflecting absolutely the truth of the Gospel and the way it modified us individually. The book of Acts expresses this concept as being “witnesses.” By sharing our own experiences of God’s grace and salvation, we encourage others and bear witness to the transformative power of Christ.
The hymn reminds us of the centrality of Christ’s sacrifice, how he left his home in glory and went to the cross for humanity’s sake. Understanding and embracing the depth of Christ’s love and sacrifice compels us to live lives of gratitude and devotion, leading to sharing the Father’s amazing love with others.
“I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” also addresses the truth of life’s challenges. However, the hymn reassures that Christ’s presence and guidance provide strength and luxury, reflecting John 16:33, “I even have told you these items, in order that in me you will have peace. In this world, you’ll have trouble. But take heart! I even have overcome the world.” Jesus acknowledges our challenges and tribulations but reassures us of his victory over the world and its trouble, offering us peace and encouragement to stay steadfast.
Rowley’s song gives a whole view of God’s redemptive plan. While we regularly grow to be distracted by our struggles and hardships, our salvation becomes part of a bigger renewal across heaven and earth. Our hope today lies in God’s faithfulness to maintain his guarantees in the long run, like how he’ll turn all things for good for individuals who love him and are called in line with his purpose (Romans 8:28).
Finally, this hymn’s joyful tone emphasizes the enjoyment and hope present in salvation. Singing about Christ’s wondrous story reinforces the enjoyment of being redeemed and the peace of mind of everlasting life. This aligns with Isaiah 12:5: “Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all of the world.” Scripture calls us to praise God and likewise tell the world the nice things he has done. When done with joy, our hopeful declaration draws others to learn more about Christ, the best treasure we will share.
Peace.
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