HYMN #0144 SSS #144 • SS&S Meter: CM. Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #144: When God of old the way

Complete lyrics, stanzas, and pipe organ accompaniment • Sacred Songs & Solos

When God of old the way of life
Would teach to all His own,
He placed them safe beyond the reach
Of death, by blood alone.
It is His word, God’s precious word,
It stands for ever true:
"When I the Lord shall see the blood,
I will pass over you."

By Christ, the sinless Lamb of God,
The precious blood was shed,
When He fulfilled God’s holy Word,
And suffered in our stead.

O soul, for thee salvation thus
By God is freely given;
The blood of Christ atones for sin,
And makes us meet for heaven.

The wrath of God that was our due,
Upon the Lamb was laid;
And by the shedding of His blood
The debt for us was paid.

How calm the judgment hour shall pass
To all who do obey
The Word of God, and trust the blood,
And make that Word their stay!

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "When God of old the way"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #144 in Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200 Hymns), compiled by the American gospel singer and hymnologist Ira David Sankey (1840–1908).

Sankey popularized these sacred songs during the transatlantic evangelistic campaigns led alongside Dwight L. Moody between 1873 and 1903. The compilation became one of the most widely printed hymnals in Christendom, cherished by Methodist, Baptist, Anglican, Presbyterian, and Pentecostal congregations throughout the world.

🕊️ Devotional Themes & Reflection

Composed of 5 stanzas, the text centers on foundational biblical themes: adoration and praise to God, humble reliance upon divine grace, steadfast faith amid trials, and the everlasting hope of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Whether sung during Sunday corporate worship or read during family devotions and personal prayer, these stanzas guide the believer to reflect on God's unending mercies and steadfast faithfulness across every season of life.

🎼 Musical Structure & Liturgy

Poetic Meter: CM.
Stanza Structure: 5 Verses with cathedral pipe organ accompaniment
Liturgical Placement: Suitable as an Opening Hymn of Praise, Call to Worship, Offertory, or Closing Doxology
Pipe Organ Audio: Multi-verse accompaniment synthesized to support organists, choir rehearsals, and home worship

⚖️ Public Domain Archival: This historic hymn text and tune are in the worldwide public domain and may be freely printed in church bulletins or projected for public worship.

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