Amazing Grace: the story of John Newton’s hymn
The story of “Amazing Grace”, written by John Newton in 1779: a former slave trader’s hymn of mercy, with its Scripture background and a short reflection.
Classic hymns, Stories behind the songs
Gospel Hymns
The words, history and Scripture behind the gospel hymns and songs that have carried the faith through the centuries.
Classic hymns
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God: Martin Luther’s hymn of trust
“A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” by Martin Luther: the history of the Reformation hymn, its link to Psalm 46, and a reflection on trusting God in trouble.
Classic hymns, Stories behind the songs
It Is Well with My Soul: the story of Horatio Spafford
The story behind “It Is Well with My Soul”: Horatio Spafford’s hymn written after the loss of his daughters, with Scripture and a reflection on peace in sorrow.
Classic hymns
Rock of Ages: Augustus Toplady’s hymn of refuge
“Rock of Ages” by Augustus Toplady: its history, the tune TOPLADY, the Scripture image of the rock, and a reflection on taking refuge in Christ.
Classic hymns
Holy, Holy, Holy: Reginald Heber’s hymn of the Trinity
“Holy, Holy, Holy” by Reginald Heber: the story of this Trinity hymn, its tune NICAEA, and the vision of Isaiah 6 behind it.
Classic hymns, Stories behind the songs
Blessed Assurance: the story of Fanny Crosby’s hymn
“Blessed Assurance” by Fanny Crosby: how Phoebe Knapp’s tune inspired the words, and what the hymn says about confidence in Christ.
Classic hymns
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross: Isaac Watts’s communion hymn
“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” by Isaac Watts: its communion origins, the tune HAMBURG, and the Galatians 6:14 verse behind it.
Classic hymns, Stories behind the songs
Just As I Am: Charlotte Elliott’s hymn of welcome
“Just As I Am” by Charlotte Elliott: the story of the hymn written from illness and doubt, and the promise of John 6:37.
Classic hymns, Stories behind the songs
Abide with Me: Henry Francis Lyte’s hymn
“Abide with Me” by Henry Francis Lyte: written in his last weeks, drawn from Luke 24, and still sung at funerals and in times of change.
Classic hymns
Joy to the World: Isaac Watts and Psalm 98
“Joy to the World” by Isaac Watts: how a paraphrase of Psalm 98 became a Christmas hymn, and what it says about Christ’s coming and reign.