Jesus Loves Even Me

Author & Composer: Philip P. Bliss (1838–1876)
Meter: 10.10.10.10 with Chorus
Scripture Reference: “As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.” — John 15:9 (KJV)

One of the greatest contributions to the history of evangelical Christianity, particularly in the United States, has been the Sunday School movement. However, this focus on reaching children with the gospel was not always a part of church tradition. For centuries, Christian education primarily centered on catechism—training children in church doctrine and practice—without much emphasis on personal transformation or concern for the moral and spiritual well-being of society’s children.

That began to change through the influence of Robert Raikes (1736–1811), often regarded as the founder of the modern Sunday School. Born in Gloucester, England, Raikes was a successful newspaper editor who became deeply burdened by the plight of poor, uneducated children in his city. In an era when child labor was rampant and four out of five children had no access to education, Raikes began inviting children off the streets to teach them to read and to instruct them in the Bible. His pioneering efforts gained traction and laid the foundation for a movement that would spread worldwide.

The momentum of this movement grew when Methodists, following the lead of John and Charles Wesley, began establishing Sunday Schools throughout England and, eventually, post-Revolutionary America. The establishment of the American Sunday School Union in 1824 further fueled this effort. As churches began to realize the importance of engaging children, Christian leaders recognized music as one of the most effective tools for this ministry. Children naturally respond to music, and the simplicity of gospel songs made spiritual truths both accessible and memorable.

It was in this climate that gospel musicians like Philip P. Bliss, Ira D. Sankey, George F. Root, Charles H. Gabriel, and Fanny J. Crosby emerged as prominent voices, creating a wealth of music designed to teach children the gospel. Among them, Philip P. Bliss was one of the most influential. Born on July 9, 1838, in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, Bliss spent his early years in poverty, growing up on a farm in a lumber camp. He described his childhood as difficult and lacking material comforts. In 1850, Bliss trusted Christ as his Savior and became a member of the Cherry Flats Baptist Church in Tioga County, Pennsylvania.

From a young age, Bliss exhibited a natural gift for music. With limited formal training, he eventually moved to Chicago, where he became involved in conducting singing schools and musical conventions in the Midwest, often in partnership with Dr. George F. Root. His career shifted dramatically in 1874 when evangelist D. L. Moody and Major Daniel W. Whittle encouraged him to enter full-time evangelistic work. For the next two years, Bliss traveled extensively, using his musical talents to lead thousands in gospel singing.

Tragically, his life was cut short at the age of 38. In December 1876, while traveling by train from Pennsylvania to Chicago during the Christmas season, the train derailed and plunged into a ravine. Bliss and his wife were among the 100 passengers who died in the accident.

Bliss left behind a legacy of deeply loved hymns. George C. Stebbins, a fellow gospel songwriter, remarked, “There has been no writer of verse since his time who has shown such a grasp of the fundamental truths of the gospel, or such a gift for putting them into a poetic and singable form.”

One such hymn, “Jesus Loves Even Me,” was written after Bliss attended a service where the hymn “O How I Love Jesus” was sung repeatedly. As he reflected on the message, he thought, “Have I not been singing enough about my poor love for Jesus? Should I not rather sing of His great love for me?” Inspired by that insight, Bliss immediately composed both the words and music for this new song. The result was a hymn that quickly became one of the most beloved songs for children, celebrating the personal and unfailing love of Christ for even the least.

“Jesus Loves Even Me” was first published in Bliss’s 1871 collection, The Charm for Sunday Schools. Its impact was immediate, spreading rapidly in both the United States and Great Britain. The simple yet powerful message of Christ’s love for every individual resonated across age groups and denominations.

Bliss’s enduring contributions to hymnody include other well-known gospel songs such as:

• “Hold the Fort”

• “I Gave My Life for Thee”

• “It Is Well with My Soul” (music)

• “My Redeemer”

• “Let the Lower Lights Be Burning”

• “Once for All”

Each of these hymns reflects the same deep conviction that animated Bliss’s life and ministry: a desire to communicate the heart of the gospel in song—clear, biblical, singable, and full of grace.