Because Thou Hast Said

“Because Thou Hast Said” is a missionary hymn grounded firmly in the Great Commission of our Lord. Written by Charles Wesley in 1748, the text reflects a heart fully surrendered to Christ’s command to preach the gospel to every creature. The hymn is built upon the authority of Christ’s words, especially His promise, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:20, KJV). Wesley does not appeal to human strength, ability, or courage, but to the certainty of Christ’s command and presence. The phrase “Because Thou hast said” expresses simple, obedient faith. The believer goes forward not because the task is easy, nor because success is guaranteed in earthly terms, but because the Lord has spoken.

The hymn captures the missionary zeal that characterized the eighteenth century evangelical revival. Charles Wesley, alongside his brother John, saw the urgent need to carry the message of salvation by grace through faith to those who had never truly heard or understood it. This hymn gives voice to that urgency. It echoes Isaiah’s willing response, “Here am I; send me” (Isaiah 6:8), and anticipates the Spirit-empowered witness described in Acts 1:8. The believer steps into unknown fields trusting that Christ Himself goes before, accompanies, and sustains His servants.

The theology of the hymn is deeply Christ-centered. It recognizes that evangelistic work depends entirely upon the authority of the risen Savior. The command to disciple the nations rests on His sovereign power in heaven and earth. The hymn therefore strengthens courage by reminding the church that obedience is anchored in divine promise. Christ’s presence is not symbolic but real, and His power is not limited by geography, culture, or opposition.

“Because Thou Hast Said” serves both as a prayer and a declaration of commitment. It calls the church to renewed faithfulness in proclaiming the gospel message. The hymn reminds believers that the task remains until the end of the age, and that every act of faithful witness rests upon the unchanging word of Christ.