335. We’ve a story to tell to the nations
Colin Sterne, 1862-1928
A popular missionary hymn, breathing the spirit of Christ’s great commission: “Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.”
The message of the hymn, in which lies the hope of the nations, is summarized in the chorus.
The words and music are by the same person, Henry Ernest Nichol, who was born at Hull, England, December 10, 1862. He always signed his correct name to a tune, and the anagram “Colin Sterne,” to a hymn. Oxford University gave him his degree in music. His compositions, many of them for the church, have the simplicity and directness of the folk song. The tune here forms a splendid musical setting for the words and may be sung variously, as a solo, duet, all the voices in unison, or in four parts.