Lift Him Up

“Lift Him Up” is a fervent gospel hymn by Johnson Oatman, Jr. that centers on the exaltation of Jesus Christ through proclamation, witness, and worship. Inspired by Christ’s words, “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me” (John 12:32, KJV), the hymn calls believers to make Christ central in their lives and testimony so that others may be drawn to Him.

The hymn presents Christ being “lifted up” in two complementary ways. First, it recalls His lifting up on the cross, where He gave His life for the salvation of sinners. This act of sacrifice is the foundation of the gospel message. Second, it emphasizes lifting Him up through praise, faithful living, and bold witness. The believer’s responsibility is to point clearly and consistently to Christ, not to self, allowing the power of the gospel to work in the hearts of those who hear.

Oatman’s text reflects the evangelistic spirit of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The hymn urges Christians to proclaim Christ openly and without shame, trusting that God will use the message to bring conviction and faith. The language is simple and direct, making the hymn effective for congregational singing and evangelistic gatherings alike.

A tone of confidence runs throughout the hymn. Christ is presented as victorious and worthy of exaltation, having conquered sin and death. The call to lift Him up is therefore not burdensome but joyful, rooted in gratitude for redemption and hope in Christ’s reign. The hymn reinforces the truth that the gospel’s power lies in Christ Himself, not in human persuasion.

“Lift Him Up” remains a powerful reminder of the church’s calling to exalt Christ above all else. Its enduring message encourages believers to center their worship, witness, and daily lives on Jesus, trusting that as He is lifted up, He will draw people to Himself and be glorified.