I Know Whom I Have Believed

“I Know Whom I Have Believed” was written in 1883 by Daniel Webster Whittle, a Civil War veteran who became a well-known evangelist and hymn writer after his conversion. Whittle, often writing under the pen name “El Nathan,” composed many gospel songs that emphasized assurance of salvation and confidence in Christ’s keeping power. This hymn is one of his most enduring contributions to Christian hymnody, and it reflects the apostle Paul’s testimony in 2 Timothy 1:12.

The text expresses the believer’s humble confession of limited understanding regarding God’s purposes and ways, yet it declares unshakable trust in Christ’s power to save and preserve His people. Each verse acknowledges mysteries of faith such as how the Spirit works conviction in the heart, how God redeems the sinner, and how future glory will be revealed. Yet the refrain triumphantly affirms, “I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I’ve committed unto Him against that day.”

The music was composed by James McGranahan, Whittle’s frequent collaborator and a respected gospel musician. His tune matches the tone of certainty and strength in the text, carrying the believer’s confession with boldness and conviction.

For more than a century, this hymn has been cherished in churches worldwide. It has served as a testimony song in times of trial, a declaration of faith in evangelistic meetings, and a comfort at funerals and memorials. The hymn captures the Christian’s secure hope, not in knowledge of all mysteries, but in the person of Christ Himself, who faithfully holds the believer until the day of final redemption.