What Manner of Love

M. S. Sullivan was a late 19th-century hymn writer whose identity is often associated with the initials M. S. S. While detailed biographical records are scarce, their work gained significant traction within evangelical circles, particularly through the influential publications of Ira D. Sankey. Sullivan’s writing is characteristic of the "Gospel Song" era, focusing on the themes of divine love, personal assurance, and the hope of the afterlife.

The most enduring contribution attributed to this author is the hymn "Behold, What Love, What Boundless Love." First appearing in the late 1870s, the text is a meditative reflection on 1 John 3:1 ("Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us"). Its popularity was cemented by its inclusion in Sankey’s Sacred Songs and Solos, where it was paired with a melodic, accessible tune that made it a favorite for congregational singing and solo performance alike.

Sullivan’s international reach is evidenced by the translation of this specific hymn into multiple languages, including:

• German: "O sehet, welche Liebe hat"

• Norwegian: "Se, hvilket dyb af kjærlighed"

These translations highlight the hymn's resonance within the global pietistic and revival movements of the 19th century, where the focus on "boundless love" served as a core evangelical message.

In addition to this flagship work, Sullivan authored "O Shall I Be Among That Throng," a hymn that explores the "blessed hope" of the resurrection and the gathering of believers in eternity. Like many writers of this period, Sullivan utilized a simple, rhythmic style designed to make profound theological concepts easily digestible for Sunday School students and revival converts. Though the author remains a somewhat shadowy figure in the annals of hymnology, the "boundless love" they penned continues to be a point of reflection in traditional evangelical worship.