I have always loved hymns, and in particular, learning the stories behind how they were written. The story behind I Have Decided to Follow Jesus is one that I found particularly moving…
“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” is a Christian hymn originating from India.
The lyrics are based on the last words of a man in north-east India, who along with his family, was converted to Christianity in the middle of the 19th century through the efforts of a Welsh missionary.
Called to renounce his faith by the village chief, the convert declared, “I have decided to follow Jesus.” In response to threats to his family, he continued, “Though no one joins me, still I will follow.” His wife was killed, and he was executed while singing, “The cross before me, the world behind me.” This display of faith is reported to have led to the conversion of the chief and others in the village.
The formation of these words into a hymn is attributed to the Indian missionary Sadhu Sundar Singh. The melody is also Indian, and entitled “Assam” after the region where the text originated.The fierce opposition is possible as various tribes in that area were formerly renowned for head-hunting.
An American hymn editor, William Jensen Reynolds, composed an arrangement which was included in the 1959 Assembly Songbook.
SOURCE: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Have_Decided_to_Follow_Jesus
Often when we sing these words, we think of leaving behind frivolous things- like selfishness, a life of partying, or other things like gossiping or gambling. When I think of this missionary and the courage he had to sing these words as he watched his own family be taken from him- and then knowing that his own life would be taken, too- it takes on a whole new meaning. Are you willing to give up everything for the sake of following Christ?
So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:33
“No Turning Back”
I have decided to follow Jesus
No turning back, no turning back
Hallelujah, hallelujah!
The world behind me, the cross before me
No turning back, no turning back
Hallelujah, hallelujah!
Though none go with me, still I will follow
No turning back, no turning back
Hallelujah, hallelujah!
[…] via no turning back — I Sing Because I’m Free […]
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https://justmebeingcurious.com/2017/11/11/i-have-decided-to-follow-jesus/
Slightly different journey with the same hymn.
((hugs))
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Thanks for sharing the link to your post on the song. When I sing this song it comes from a place of “surrender”- deciding His will- not mine, choosing to LIVE for Him. Your post was thought provoking as always 😊
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Thank you Julie ((hugs))
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Great post, Julie. I also love to read the stories behind the hymn writers.
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Thank you, Bill! And congrats on 6 years of writing your blog! Your posts are such an encouragement, and an amazing testimony to God’s faithfulness! Blessings to you 😊
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Thank you, my friend.
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LOVE hearing and singing hymns. What a blessing to read your blog today and know that others are still enjoying these good songs and stories behind them!
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Thank you so much Shanda! I have always loved hymns 🙂
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