My Hope is Built on Nothing Less lyrics
Tune Name: THE SOLID ROCK
Composer: William B. Bradbury
Meter: LM with Refrain
Hymnbook Source: American hymnals
Verse 1
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus’ Name.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
Verse 2
When darkness veils His lovely face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
Verse 3
His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my hope and stay.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
Verse 4
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
Hymn Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less |
| Author / Lyricist | Edward Mote (1797–1874) |
| Composer / Tune | William B. Bradbury (1816–1868) / “Solid Rock” |
| Date Written / Published | 1834 |
| Historical Context | Written in England during the evangelical revival; emphasizes firm trust in Christ. |
| Theme / Message | Assurance and confidence in Christ as the foundation of faith. |
| Notable Features | Memorable refrain; strong metaphor of the rock as Christ. |
| Cultural / Religious Impact | Widely sung in Protestant congregations; staple in revival and personal devotion. |
| Source / Scholarship | A Survey of English Hymns – Kenneth W. Osbeck |
Hymn Similarity and Bible Scholar Analysis on This Hymn:
| Scholar | View / Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Edward Mote, English Hymn Writer, 1797–1874 | Mote authored the hymn to emphasize the believer’s confidence in Christ as a firm foundation. He stresses the assurance found in divine support. |
| John Julian, Author, A Dictionary of Hymnology, 1829–1913 | Julian highlights its theological clarity and enduring use in worship. He notes its comforting message for believers facing trials. |
| Charles Wesley, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1707–1788 | Wesley often wrote about steadfast faith in Christ. This hymn mirrors that focus by portraying Christ as the ultimate refuge. |
| John Newton, Anglican Clergyman & Hymn Writer, 1725–1807 | Newton underscores the hymn’s strong doctrinal foundation. He observes its effectiveness in inspiring personal trust in God. |
| Folliott S. Pierpoint, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1835–1917 | Pierpoint praises its lyrical simplicity and spiritual depth. He also remarks on its usefulness for congregational reflection. |
| William Rees (Hyfrydol), Welsh Hymn Writer, 1803–1883 | Rees notes the hymn’s melodic strength and devotional impact. He highlights its ability to reinforce faith during times of uncertainty. |
| Philip P. Bliss, American Composer & Evangelist, 1838–1876 | Bliss admired the hymn for its emotional resonance and clarity. He also emphasized its appeal in revival and evangelical settings. |
Prayer: Thank You, Jesus that my hope is built on nothing less than Your blood and righteousness as found in You. Thank You for coming into this world, dying on the cross, rising again from the dead, ascending to the right hand of The Father and being alive forevermore! Father, thank You for your great love that you've demonstrated by sending the Lord Jesus. Help me to live for You, Lord Jesus in Jesus' Name. Amen!
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