wonderful words of life

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 1874

"Wonderful Words of Life" was written in 1874 by American gospel songwriter Philip P. Bliss (1838–1876) for the first issue of a Sunday School paper called Words of Life. It quickly became a beloved hymn, reflecting the evangelical spirit of the era, focusing on the beauty and power of the Gospel. 
Origin and History
  • Composer: Philip P. Bliss wrote both the text and the tune for the hymn, known as "Words of Life," during a time he was collaborating with evangelist Major D.W. Whittle and, by extension, D.L. Moody.
  • Context: The song was created for a new religious publication, Words of Life, published by Fleming H. Revell in Chicago in 1874.
  • Inspiration: The hymn was inspired by John 6:67–68, where Peter tells Jesus, "...You have the words of eternal life".
  • Legacy: Despite Bliss's tragic death at age 38 in a train wreck in 1876, the song has remained a popular fixture in Christian hymnody for over 140 years. 
Key Themes and Purpose
  • Gospel Focus: The lyrics emphasize the importance of scripture, calling it "beautiful" and "wonderful," encouraging listeners to "sing them over again".
  • Theological Impact: The hymn highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, focusing on faith, duty, and salvation.
  • Widespread Use: The song is known for being easy to sing, contributing to its lasting popularity in congregations worldwide. 
Philip Bliss was known as a prominent figure in 19th-century American gospel music, having written over 300 hymns. "Wonderful Words of Life" remains one of his most recognized works. 

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