I Will Sing of Jesus' Love, Sing of Him who

“I Will Sing of Jesus’ Love” was written in 1886 by Franklin Edson Belden, an American hymn writer associated with the Seventh-day Adventist tradition. The hymn is a devotional expression of gratitude for Christ’s redemptive love and is structured as a personal testimony of faith grounded in the atoning work of Jesus Christ.

The opening line echoes Psalm 89:1, “I will sing of the mercies of the LORD for ever.” The hymn frames praise as a response to divine initiative rather than human merit. Its central theme is the sacrificial love of Christ, consistent with John 15:13, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” The text emphasizes Christ’s willingness to suffer and die for sinners, presenting the cross as the ultimate demonstration of divine love.

Revelation 1:5 declares that Jesus Christ “loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.” The hymn reflects this cleansing motif, acknowledging the believer’s former alienation and the transformative effect of redemption. The language is personal and confessional, describing salvation as an experienced reality rather than an abstract doctrine.

The hymn also aligns with 1 John 4:9-10, which identifies the sending of the Son as the manifestation of God’s love and the propitiation for sin. Belden’s text affirms that Christ’s love precedes and enables the believer’s response. The recurring resolve to sing is both worship and witness, presenting praise as a continual obligation of the redeemed.

Galatians 2:20 provides theological context for the hymn’s personal tone: “the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” The emphasis on individual appropriation of Christ’s sacrifice reflects nineteenth century evangelical spirituality, in which assurance of salvation and heartfelt devotion were central concerns.

“I Will Sing of Jesus’ Love” has been included in denominational hymnals and remains associated with congregational worship focused on gratitude for redemption. Its enduring use reflects its clear doctrinal foundation and straightforward expression of praise centered on the love of Christ manifested at the cross.