HYMN #0247 SSS #247 • SS&S Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #247: Oh, serve the Lord

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

1

"Oh, serve the Lord with gladness,"
And come before His throne;
He is the great Creator,
And He is God alone;
The heavens declare His glory,
The earth His power displays;
While millions without number
To Him glad anthems raise.
"Oh, serve the Lord with gladness,"
And come before His throne!
He is our great Redeemer,
And He is God alone.

2

"Oh, serve the Lord with gladness,"
And glad hosannas bring
To Him, the Sovereign Ruler,
The universal King;
For ever through the ages
His truth unchanging stands;
Let all the nations fear Him,
And reverence His commands.

3

"Oh, serve the Lord with gladness,"
His love to all proclaim;
Exalt Him in the highest,
And spread abroad His fame;
All majesty, dominion,
All power and glory, be
To Him who reigns in triumph,
Through all eternity.

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "Oh, serve the Lord"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #247 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 3 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: Standard Metrical Hymnody
Stanza Structure: 3 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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