The History of Great Hymns

The writer of this much-loved hymn, Charles Wesley (1707-88), was the youngest of 18 children (sadly, many died in infancy). Blessed with a remarkable musical ability, Charles penned an estimated 9000 faith-based poems, of which approximately 6000 are hymns. Furthermore, each of these hymns reflected deep theological teachings that taught the singer of the hymns much on the nature of God and the Holy Scriptures. 

Many of Charles’ hymns were composed on horseback as he travelled to various church meetings, such was the joyful diligence of this humble servant of Christ Jesus. Many scholars believe that Charles’ talent was so impressive that he could compose 10 lines of verse every day for 50 years! Yet this enormous output did not damage or dilute the depth of Charles’ scriptural imagery that aided the singer in furthering their Christian Walk in joyful song and praise of God.

Love Dvine, All Loves Excelling, was first published in 1747, in a collection of hymns entitled Hymns for those that Seek, and those that Have, Redemption in the Blood of Christ. The opening line of Charles’ hymn was a clever play on the first line of the poem Fairest Isle, All Isles Excelling, written by John Dryden and set to the music of Henry Purcell.

This beloved hymn is commonly set to either the tunes ‘Beecher’ or ‘Hyfrdol’ in hymnals and follows the three-fold progression of Christian consideration. Firstly, prayers for the blessed receiving of the Holy Spirit. Secondly, prayers for the awaited return of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Thirdly, prayers for the coming of the blessed new Creation. 

The culmination of these much-needed Christian considerations and prayers, leads to the wonderful climax of hope in the following of Christ Jesus and the adhering to His Word, that we shall be ‘changed from glory to glory’. This tremendous Scriptural hope is parallelled in 2 Corinthians 3:8, teaching and reminding the joyful singer of the hymn of what glories await the faithful in Christ Jesus.