No, Not One

Author – Johnson Oatman, Jr., 1856–1922
Composer – George C. Hugg, 1848–1907
Tune Name – No, Not One
Meter – 8.7.8.7 D with Refrain
Scripture Reference – Hebrews 4:15; Matthew 28:20
"For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities..." (Hebrews 4:15, KJV)

The beloved hymn “No, Not One” is the collaborative work of two notable figures in American gospel music: Johnson Oatman, Jr., and George C. Hugg. Johnson Oatman, Jr., the hymn’s lyricist, was born in New Jersey in 1856 and was a prolific gospel hymn writer, credited with over 5,000 hymns during his lifetime. Though he served as a Methodist minister, much of his legacy is found in the Sunday School and revival movement music of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His lyrics often reflect deep spiritual insight, compassion for human struggle, and a robust hope in Christ’s sufficiency. The words of “No, Not One” illustrate these qualities well, presenting Christ not only as sinless but as an intimate and unmatched friend to sinners and sufferers alike. The repeated refrain“Jesus knows all about our struggles / He will guide till the day is done” underscores the comforting biblical truth that Christ, in His humanity and divinity, walks with the believer in every hardship.

George C. Hugg, the composer of the tune, was active in the same era and well-known in Philadelphia’s gospel music circles. He worked closely with several other hymn writers of the time and was responsible for the musical setting of many hymns that became fixtures in American Protestant hymnals. His melody for “No, Not One” is simple yet stirring, accessible for congregational singing, and emotionally expressive. It pairs seamlessly with Oatman’s lyrics, emphasizing their message through a gentle but confident tune. Hugg’s musical arrangement has endured largely unchanged since its publication, and it contributes greatly to the hymn’s enduring popularity among choirs, soloists, and congregations alike.

First published in 1895, “No, Not One” quickly found its place in American hymnody. It became especially cherished in revival meetings, camp meetings, and rural churches across the country. Its enduring appeal lies in its accessibility and its message of divine companionship and love. The hymn affirms that Jesus is uniquely compassionate unlike any earthly friend or teacher and that no human experience of sorrow, loneliness, or temptation is beyond His understanding or care. This aligns with the theological truths expressed in Hebrews 4:15 and Matthew 28:20, where Jesus is described as a High Priest who shares in our sufferings and as One who promises to be with His followers “alway, even unto the end of the world.” With each stanza, Oatman’s lyrics dismantle any comparison to Christ’s love and help, affirming over and over: “No, not one!” The hymn remains a vital part of Christian worship and devotional life, reminding believers that the Lord Jesus Christ is the ever-present, ever-loving friend of sinnersunmatched and unsurpassed.