Today we explore the touching story and timeless message of "Blest Be the Tie That Binds," a beloved hymn born from Pastor John Fawcett's remarkable decision to choose his impoverished Yorkshire congregation over a prestigious London position in 1782.

The tragic life of William Cowper resulted in one of the great hymns, declaring God's sovereignty and finding hope in His goodness through the storms!

A sermon that made Elvina Hall’s mind wander, and a new tune by musician John Grape, came together to form one the great hymns about the price Jesus paid for our sins. How wonderful that we don’t have to pay our way to God, because Jesus has already done so.

Stuart Townend's wonderful song sounds like it may have been written a century ago, but it's only 30 years old. Hear why he felt called to write a hymn, and consider how perhaps one of the lines might not be the right thing to be singing.

A double feature today as we look at two hymns inspired by Katherine Hankey's lovely poem about "The old old story of Jesus and His love". Perhaps you are familiar with "Tell Me the Old Old Story" or perhaps you know "I Love To Tell the Story". Both come from her writing, written in the worst period of her life.

A classic hymn about the victory risen Christ, written by a Swiss man who had lost his wife, translated by an Englishman shortly after and set to a famous piece written by Handel. Learning it for my uncle's memorial service made me truly appreciate the message of Christ's victory over death!

A beloved Christmas carol with intriguing origins. Was it written by Martin Luther? Did a Methodist Sunday School man write the third verse? Find out here, and also hear a touching personal story about the enduring power of this hymn in a local care facility, before singing two popular versions with me at the end.

Walking home from a Christmas pageant, a Catholic priest wrote the most beloved Christmas carol of all! His friend put some music to it, and their beautiful song has resonated with Christ-lovers for 200 years. Hear the story behind the song and take a look at his original six verses, in today’s Friday Classic episode.

From a young man who knew nothing of God to writing one of Christianity's most beloved hymns - discover the inspiring story behind "The Solid Rock" (also known as "My Hope is Built on Nothing Less"). Edward Mote's powerful message of finding hope in Christ alone began touching lives before it was even published, and continues to inspire believers today.

James Edwin Orr was known as one of the world's leading experts in Christian revival and evangelism. His classic song "Search Me O God" was inspired by a particular mission trip to New Zealand.

Rev Robert Lowry was struck one day by how hymn-writers wrote much about the 'river of death' that we have to cross, but little about the 'river of life' described in Revelation 22. He never really liked the song he ended up writing - but the rest of the world seemed to love it and became a favorite!

The famous prayer of St Francis - probably not written by him - was put to some beautiful music by a South African songwriter in unusual circumstances. Hear the story and let's take a look at the wonderful words of this prayer.

William Dunn Longstaff wrote a beautiful song about the pursuit of holiness! A wealthy man who supported some well-known evangelists of his day, Longstaff's legacy lives on through this deep song of devotion.

Charles Wesley's famous short hymn in rare in that it was based on words of a commentary. His words inspire us to keep focused on our calling as priests in the kingdom of God. I sing both

A classic hymn that celebrates God's saving love, lifting us out of our sea of sin and bringing us safely to shore. Not much is known about the man who wrote the song, except that he wrote many hymns including this wonderful song of grace. Popular evangelists of the 20th century used his song extensively to bring home their message of God's offer for salvation.

Today’s Friday Classic hymn is probably the oldest English hymn that is still sung today! And the story behind it involves a murderous queen known as Bloody Mary, Swiss Calvinists translating the Bible, and a Scottish Protestant writing metrical Psalms. Enjoy!

A German nun wrote a wonderful hymn based on Psalm 46, and a century later a pious Scottish woman translated it into English. Years later still, a famous melody was matched to the words - and a classic hymn fell into place. How many people have been deeply encouraged and strengthened by this powerful song?

A blind lay preacher wrote a wonderful poem on prayer... or did he? There is some mystery behind today's Friday Classic Hymn - but in the end, this is wonderful hymn reminding us of the amazing worth of taking time to pray.

Edward Perronet, an early Methodist and later independent minister, wrote one of the great praise hymns of all time. His original 8 verses are filled with biblical imagery that "crown Him Lord of All"!

This great hymn is known as the battle hymn of the reformation! Hear the story behind it's composition by the famous German monk and reformer Martin Luther, and see why his lyrics are still sung with gusto around the world today.