Go Ye into All the World (Far, far away,)

“Go Ye into All the World” by James McGranahan is one of the most stirring missionary hymns of the late nineteenth century. Written in 1886, it captures the heartbeat of Christ’s Great Commission and calls believers to action with a sense of urgency and purpose. McGranahan, a gifted composer known for his collaborations with evangelists such as Major D. W. Whittle and Philip P. Bliss, poured his musical and spiritual passion into this hymn to inspire Christians toward global evangelism.

The song is based directly on the words of Christ in Mark 16:15, where the risen Savior commands His disciples to proclaim the gospel everywhere. McGranahan’s hymn takes that divine charge and sets it to music that both stirs the soul and compels obedience. Each verse highlights the responsibility of the believer to carry the good news beyond personal comfort and across every border. The call is not just for missionaries abroad but for every follower of Christ to be a messenger of His grace wherever they are.

The lyrics emphasize the urgency of the gospel message, reminding the church that the time for evangelism is now. McGranahan’s use of repetition and musical strength reinforces the idea that this is not a suggestion but a divine commission. The refrain rings out like a trumpet call: “Far, far away, in heathen darkness dwelling, millions of souls forever may be lost. Who will go, salvation’s story telling, looking to Jesus, counting not the cost?” This refrain turns the hymn into both a prayer and a challenge.

In melody and message, “Go Ye into All the World” reflects McGranahan’s deep burden for souls and his partnership with the great missionary movement of his day. It was often sung at revival meetings, missionary conventions, and church services that encouraged believers to dedicate themselves to service. The song embodies the spirit of obedience and faith, urging all Christians to trust God’s power as they go forth to share His Word.

Spiritually, the hymn calls believers to see the world as God sees it: full of lost souls in need of redemption. It teaches that every Christian is part of the divine plan to spread the message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. The hymn closes with an appeal to courage and sacrifice, reminding the singer that the labor of soul-winning is never in vain when it is done for the glory of God.

“Go Ye into All the World” continues to echo the words of Christ to every generation. Its message remains timeless: that the gospel is too precious to keep to ourselves and that every believer has a role in carrying it to those who have never heard. Through McGranahan’s inspired melody and scriptural truth, the hymn stands as a rallying cry for missions, faithfulness, and obedience to the Savior’s final command.