Since Jesus Came Into My Heart

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 1914

“Since Jesus Came Into My Heart” – History of the Hymn

“Since Jesus Came Into My Heart” is a well-known evangelical gospel hymn from the early 20th century, closely associated with revival meetings and personal testimony-style worship.

📖 Origins

  • Lyricist: Rufus H. McDaniel

  • Composer: Charles H. Gabriel

  • Year Written: 1914

Rufus H. McDaniel, a Methodist minister and songwriter, wrote the lyrics after reading Acts 16:31 (“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved”). He intended the hymn to express the joy and assurance of salvation that comes from accepting Christ.

Charles H. Gabriel, a prolific gospel composer of the era, set McDaniel’s words to music. Gabriel was one of the most influential gospel music composers of the early 1900s and wrote or composed music for thousands of hymns.

🎵 Musical Style

The hymn reflects the gospel song movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries:

  • Upbeat, joyful melody

  • Strong, memorable refrain

  • Testimony-centered lyrics

  • Designed for congregational singing and revival services

The repeating chorus — “Since Jesus came into my heart” — reinforces the theme of transformation and spiritual joy.

🌍 Popularity and Legacy

The hymn became widely used in:

  • Evangelical and Methodist churches

  • Revival campaigns and evangelistic crusades

  • Sunday school and hymnals throughout the 20th century

It remains a favorite in traditional and conservative Protestant congregations and appears in many hymnals today.

✨ Theme

The central message is personal conversion and assurance of salvation. Each verse describes changes in the believer’s life — peace, joy, hope, and confidence — all attributed to accepting Christ.

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