TO GOD BE THE GLORY

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 1872

“To God Be the Glory” is one of the best-known Christian hymns, celebrated for its joyful praise and evangelistic spirit. Here is a clear overview of its history:


Authorship and Composition


Text: Written by Fanny J. Crosby (1820–1915), the prolific American hymn writer who was blind from infancy and authored over 8,000 hymns.


Date: 1872


Tune: Composed by William H. Doane (1832–1915), an American composer, singer, and music publisher.


Meter: 11.11.11.11 with refrain


Crosby and Doane frequently collaborated, producing many gospel hymns that emphasized personal salvation and praise to God.


Biblical Inspiration and Theme


The hymn is inspired by Psalm 98 and reflects strong evangelical themes:


God’s glory and greatness


Salvation through Jesus Christ


Joyful public praise


The repeated refrain—“Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, let the earth hear His voice!”—echoes the call for universal worship.


Early Reception


Although written in 1872, the hymn did not gain immediate popularity in the United States. During that period, Crosby’s hymns were often associated with revival meetings rather than formal church worship.


Popularity in the United Kingdom


The hymn gained widespread recognition during the 1954–1955 Billy Graham crusades in London. It was used as a theme hymn, sung frequently by large congregations, which helped cement its popularity.


From the UK, its popularity spread back to the United States and other parts of the world.


Modern Use and Legacy


Now a standard hymn in Protestant churches across denominations.


Commonly sung for:


Worship services


Easter celebrations


Evangelistic meetings


Featured in many major hymnals, including The Baptist Hymnal, Methodist Hymnal, and Hymns Ancient and Modern.


Significance


“To God Be the Glory” endures because of:


Its strong doctrinal clarity


Its joyful, triumphant melody


Its emphasis on giving all praise to God alone


It remains one of the most recognizable and beloved hymns in Christian worship worldwide.

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