Jesus Saves Lyrics
Priscilla J. Owens
Tune Name: UNKNOWN/Traditional
Composer: Unknown
Meter: 8.7.8.7
Hymnbook Source: Gospel hymnals
Verse 1
We have heard the joyful sound:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Spread the tidings all around:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Bear the news to every land,
Climb the mountains, cross the waves;
Onward! ’tis our Lord’s command;
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Verse 2
Waft it on the rolling tide:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Tell to sinners far and wide:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Sing, you islands of the sea;
Echo back, you ocean caves;
Earth shall keep her jubilee:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Verse 3
Sing above the battle strife:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
By His death and endless life,
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Shout it brightly through the gloom,
When the heart for mercy craves;
Sing in triumph o’er the tomb:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Verse 4
Give the winds a mighty voice:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Let the nations now rejoice:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Shout salvation full and free;
Highest hills and deepest caves;
This our song of victory:
Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Hymn Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Jesus Saves |
| Author / Lyricist | Priscilla J. Owens (1829–1907) |
| Composer / Tune | William J. Kirkpatrick (1838–1921) |
| Date Written / Published | 1875 |
| Historical Context | American gospel hymn emphasizing Christ’s saving power during revival movements. |
| Theme / Message | Assurance of salvation and redemption through Jesus. |
| Notable Features | Repetitive chorus; evangelistic and devotional focus. |
| Cultural / Religious Impact | Popular in Sunday schools, revival meetings, and evangelical hymnals. |
| Source / Scholarship | American Gospel Hymns Old and New – Harry Eskew |
Hymn Similarities and Biblical Scholar Analysis on This Hymn:
| Scholar | View / Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Priscilla J. Owens, American Hymn Writer, 1828–1899 | Owens wrote hymns focusing on salvation through Christ, which resonates with this hymn’s theme. The text reinforces confidence in divine rescue. |
| John Julian, Author, A Dictionary of Hymnology, 1829–1913 | Julian notes the prevalence of salvation-centered hymns in 19th-century hymnals, aligning with the hymn’s content. Its concise wording enhances congregational recall. |
| Charles Wesley, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1707–1788 | Wesley’s hymns often celebrate the power of Christ to save, paralleling this hymn’s theme. Its verses encourage spiritual assurance and devotion. |
| John Newton, Anglican Clergyman & Hymn Writer, 1725–1807 | Newton frequently explored redemption and grace, similar to this hymn’s focus. Its structure promotes contemplation of Christ’s saving work. |
| Folliott S. Pierpoint, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1835–1917 | Pierpoint composed hymns illustrating God’s mercy, corresponding with this hymn’s theme. The melody supports reflective worship. |
| William Rees (Hyfrydol), Welsh Hymn Writer, 1803–1883 | Rees’s works balance melodic clarity with theological content, similar to this hymn. It encourages both personal devotion and congregational participation. |
| Philip P. Bliss, American Composer & Evangelist, 1838–1876 | Bliss wrote hymns with a focus on redemption, which aligns with this hymn. Its concise verses convey the certainty of salvation effectively. |
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