A classic Easter hymn, celebrating Christ’s resurrection with gusto! This great song was written by Robert Lowry, and its melody matches the wording in a clever way. Explore the story of this song with me today.

Today we explore a beautiful song about the day Jesus died, "There Is a Green Hill Far Away". Its author Cecil Frances Alexander also wrote another classic children’s hymn. Discover the Derry legend that may have inspired the opening lines, and walk through every verse with a full biblical analysis.

There's a fascinating story behind this favourite children's church song - including the Civil War and a minister who was also a slight-of-hand magician. Did you know there are also three verses to this song? Learn all about it in this episode.

Frank Graeff - the "sunshine minister" was known for his cheery disposition, and yet wrote one of the deepest hymns during a time of struggle and hardship. His beautiful song was put to music and had brough comfort to many, as they remember that yes, Jesus does care!

William Cowper’s classic song was written during his time in an asylum after a mental breakdown. He learned the truth of Romans 3:25 and saw an Old Testament prophecy fulfilled in them. This great hymn is the result.

Charles Wesley's beloved Advent hymn is based on some words in the prophet Haggai. But did you know that he only wrote two of these verses?

The first widely popular American Christmas carol, written by a priest and musician for a Christmas pageant for his young nieces and nephews. What a lovely little song it is.

A great modern worship song based on Psalm 42, which emerged from heartbreak and a water fast. It has since been sung by millions worldwide.

Let me share the rich history behind "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty" - from Joachim Neander's triumphant German original in 1680 to Catherine Winkworth's beloved English translation. Explore the meaning of this magnificent hymn of praise based on Psalms 103 and 150, and learn why it's been called "the finest production of its author and of the first rank in its class."

The brilliant Fanny Crosby wrote one of her most beloved hymns when God answered her simple prayer for $5. None other than the great Robert Lowrey contributed the singable melody. What a lovely and meaningful hymn – let’s keep singing it in our churches!

A dissenting clergyman in 18th century England wrote this beautiful vision of heaven. Or is it a vision of the sanctified life? On Jordan’s Stormy Banks remains a favourite for many – although the famous refrain was not in the original work by Samual Stennett.

Two men in a drugstore came up with a catchy hymn one day. I wonder if they knew what an impact it would have!

A hymn born in tragedy – from the pen of a Swedish poet, whose beautiful words touched the heart of the nation and even the King when a local troubadour began to sing them. “Day By Day” is a fascinating story, and a touching song that will undoubtedly impact you today.

An Anglican clergyman with a great passion for hymns wrote one of the most beautiful paraphrases of Psalm 23 you’ll ever find. Hear his story and take a look at his lovely lyrics, in today’s episode.

Who wrote this classic gospel song? A man about to be executed in India? A famous Indian missionary? A pastor at a church in India? A fascinating history lies behind this simple song of commitment. Hear the story, an analysis of the lyrics, and a performance of the song on today’s episode.

A great man of God who ministered in the Church of Scotland in the 1800s, Horatius Bonar, wrote hymns in his spare time. How blessed we are to still enjoy one of his great hymns – originally titled The Voice From Galilee, likely to have been written for the children of his church.

The ‘Father of English hymnody’ Isaac Watts compiled a children’s hymn in 1715, and this was the second song. It’s a lovely song that lauds God’s creative power, which we see in nature all around us.

One of the great modern Christian songs, written by Pastor Jack Hayford. Hear the story of his drive through Britain which inspired the song, his wife’s claim to have ‘written’ it, and the impact his great song has had on the church in proclaiming the greatness of Jesus.

An impressive man wrote a humble hymn of praise based on Psalm 104. This has been a favourite in Britain for centuries!

It’s my 100^th Friday Classic Hymn episode! To celebrate I am featuring my denomination’s unofficial anthem, written by Lelia Morris and still sung all around the world by Nazarenes today. A powerful call to the holy life,enabled by Christ abiding within, this reminds us that “’Holiness unto the Lord’ is our watchword and song”.