ALMOST PERSUADED

 1871

The history of the hymn "Almost Persuaded" is rooted in a powerful sermon and a tragic scriptural encounter. Written in 1871 by the prolific American hymnwriter Philip Paul Bliss, it has become one of the most famous "invitation hymns" in Christian history. 

1. Biblical Inspiration

The hymn is based on the biblical account in Acts 26:28, where King Agrippa is confronted by the Apostle Paul. After hearing Paul's defense of his faith and the Gospel, Agrippa famously replied: 

"Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian."

This response has long been interpreted by theologians as a tragic "near miss"—the story of someone who was close to faith but ultimately turned away. 

2. The Origin Story

The specific inspiration for the song came while Philip Bliss was attending a church service in the early 1870s. 

The Sermon: A clergyman named Reverend Brundage closed his message with a sobering thought: "He who is almost persuaded is almost saved; but to be almost saved is to be entirely lost".

The Composition: Deeply moved by these words, Bliss immediately began composing the lyrics and the melody. He sought to capture the urgency and the "bitter wail" of those who postpone their salvation until it is too late. 

3. Legacy and Use in Evangelism

Revival Meetings: The hymn became a staple of the D.L. Moody and Ira Sankey revivals in the late 19th century, frequently used during the "altar call" to encourage listeners to make an immediate decision.

Billy Graham: It famously played a role in the conversion of Billy Graham in 1934; he reportedly went forward to commit his life to Christ while this song and "Just As I Am" were being sung.

Tragedy of the Author: Philip Bliss died young at age 38 in the Ashtabula River Railroad Disaster of 1876, while traveling to a revival meeting in Chicago. 

Note on Modern Music:

This hymn should not be confused with the 1966 country hit "Almost Persuaded" by David Houston. While the country song shares the same title and the theme of being "almost" swayed (in its case, toward infidelity), it is a secular song written by Glenn Sutton and Billy Sherrill.