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
Classic hymns
The history, Scripture and meaning behind hymns in the public domain, with a link to the full words of each.
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.