The King of Love My Shepherd Is Lyrics
Words: Sir Henry Williams Baker (1868)
Tune Name: ST. COLUMBA
Composer: Irish melody; H. Baker arrangement
Meter: 8.7.8.7 D
Hymnbook Source: Anglican hymnals
Music: Traditional Irish Melody
Verse 1
The King of Love my Shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never.
I nothing lack if I am His,
And He is mine forever.
Verse 2
Where streams of living water flow,
My ransomed soul He leadeth;
And where the verdant pastures grow,
With food celestial feedeth.
Verse 3
Perverse and foolish, oft I strayed,
But yet in love he sought me;
And on His shoulder gently laid,
And home, rejoicing, brought me.
Verse 4
In death’s dark vale I fear no ill,
With Thee, dear Lord, beside me;
Thy rod and staff my comfort still,
Thy cross before to guide me.
Verse 5
Thou spreadst a table in my sight;
Thy unction grace bestoweth;
And oh, what transport of delight
From Thy pure chalice floweth!
Verse 6
And so through all the length of days,
Thy goodness faileth never;
Good Shepherd, may I sing Thy praise
Within Thy house forever.
Hymn Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | King of Love My Shepherd is |
| Author / Lyricist | Henry W. Baker (1821–1877), based on Psalm 23 |
| Composer / Tune | Traditional tune “St. Columba” |
| Date Written / Published | 1868 |
| Historical Context | Victorian England; hymn adaptation of Psalm 23 reflecting pastoral care and guidance by Christ. |
| Theme / Message | God’s loving guidance, care, and provision as shepherd. |
| Notable Features | Gentle, reflective melody; scripturally grounded lyrics. |
| Cultural / Religious Impact | Widely included in Anglican and Protestant hymnals; frequently sung in pastoral and devotional settings. |
| Source / Scholarship | A Survey of English Hymns – Kenneth W. Osbeck |
Hymn Similarities and Biblical Scholar Analysis of This Hymn:
| Scholar | View / Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Henry Baker, English Hymn Writer, 1821–1877 | The hymn portrays God’s care and guidance, a theme Baker frequently addresses. Its pastoral imagery comforts believers and fosters trust. |
| John Julian, Author, A Dictionary of Hymnology, 1829–1913 | Julian points out its popularity in English-speaking congregations. The combination of poetic language and accessible melody enhances devotion. |
| Charles Wesley, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1707–1788 | Wesley illustrates the hymn’s portrayal of divine providence and protection. Its verses encourage intimate reflection on God’s guidance. |
| John Newton, Anglican Clergyman & Hymn Writer, 1725–1807 | Newton demonstrates how the hymn cultivates gratitude and confidence in God’s care. Its imagery of pastoral guidance strengthens personal faith. |
| Folliott S. Pierpoint, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1835–1917 | Pierpoint acknowledges the hymn’s lyrical clarity and meditative quality. It serves as both teaching and devotional resource. |
| William Rees (Hyfrydol), Welsh Hymn Writer, 1803–1883 | Rees points out the hymn’s melodic suitability for congregational use. Its gentle rhythm reinforces comfort and reassurance. |
| Philip P. Bliss, American Composer & Evangelist, 1838–1876 | Bliss illustrates the hymn’s appeal in revival settings. Its emotive phrasing supports worshippers in expressing trust and devotion. |
God is awesome. In John 10:27 The Lord Jesus Christ said that His sheep hear His voice, He Knows them and they follow Him. The hymn, King of Love reminds us of the truth that Lord Jesus Christ is our shepherd and we can put our trust in God. Just like in Psalm 23, this hymn reminds us of the goodness of God and His faithfulness in leading us into all truth in Himself. May you be blessed as you sing this hymn to the glory of God in Jesus' Name.
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