HYMN #0614 SSS #614 • SS&S Meter: 8.9. Sacred Songs & Solos (1,200)

SS&S Hymn #614: When I came to Jesus

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

1

When I came to Jesus, then my heart was sad;
But when He received me, then He made me glad.
Freely He forgave me, met my spirit’s need;
Then He bade me follow whither He would lead.
I will follow Jesus, follow all the day!
Walking in His footsteps closely all the way.

2

Oft in hours of trial I have gone astray,
Into worldly bypaths from the narrow way;
But my Saviour sought me, brought me to His side;
Then again I followed Christ, the Crucified.

3

But I would not wander, gracious Lord, from Thee;
I would follow wholly, with true loyalty:
Every sin forsaking from my inmost soul;
Every thought surrendered to Thy grand control.

4

Teach me by Thy Spirit, and Thy Holy Word,
How I best may suffer, and obey Thee, Lord;
And however painful to obey may be,
Love can make it gladsome, aye to follow Thee.

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Hymnological Reference • Historical Notes

Background, Themes & Devotional Notes for "When I came to Jesus"

Collection: Sacred Songs & Solos

📜 Historical Background & Origin

This hymn is cataloged as Hymn #614 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 4 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: 8.9.
Stanza Structure: 4 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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