Revive Us Again

“Revive Us Again” is a powerful hymn of spiritual awakening and gratitude, written by Scottish physician-turned-preacher William P. Mackay in 1863. Originally trained as a medical doctor, Mackay turned to the ministry after a dramatic conversion that involved rediscovering the very Bible he had once dismissed, which his mother had left with him. That rediscovered Bible helped bring about his conviction and conversion, leading him to become a passionate preacher of the Gospel. His transformation gave rise to this hymn, which continues to inspire hearts with its cry for revival and spiritual renewal.

The hymn opens with the line, “We praise thee, O God, for the Son of thy love,” acknowledging the foundational truth of Christianity—gratitude for Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Each stanza magnifies a different aspect of praise: for Jesus who died, was buried, and rose again; for the Spirit who shows us the Savior; and for the glorious hope of heaven. The theme throughout is consistent—thanksgiving coupled with a plea for spiritual life and power.

The recurring chorus—“Hallelujah! Thine the glory, Hallelujah! Amen! Hallelujah! Thine the glory, revive us again”—has made this hymn a rallying cry in revival meetings, camp gatherings, and Sunday worship services for over a century. Its joyful exclamation of “Hallelujah” (a Hebrew word meaning “Praise the Lord”) captures both a longing and a celebration, reflecting the spiritual hunger of God’s people and their delight in His presence.

Musically, the tune composed by John J. Husband predates the text and was originally written for another hymn. Its lively, upbeat rhythm complements the theme of revival and has helped secure its place as one of the most enduring and widely sung revival hymns in the English-speaking world.

The theology of the hymn is both simple and rich. It recognizes the role of each member of the Trinity: the love of the Father, the redemptive work of the Son, and the illuminating power of the Spirit. It also expresses the believer’s need—not for more knowledge or religious performance—but for inner revival, the kind of spiritual refreshing that only God can provide.

“Revive Us Again” gained particular popularity during the great revival movements of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Evangelists like D. L. Moody and R. A. Torrey made frequent use of the hymn in their campaigns, and it remains a staple in traditional hymnals today. It serves as both a declaration of faith and a prayer of petition, asking God to stir His people anew.

For Christians seeking renewal—personally, congregationally, or nationally—this hymn remains a timely and enduring prayer. Its message is clear: revival comes from God, and our response is heartfelt praise.