The music is not designed for the fastidious and scientific musician whose highest delight, and perhaps sole worship, is music as an art, but for those who love to worship God in the simple song of praise.
For comments on the composer, Isaac B. Woodbury, 1819-58, see [Hymn 261].
442. ’Tis the promise of God, full salvation to give
Philip P. Bliss, 1838-76
A hymn with a curious origin which became popular in revival meetings. It voices the spontaneous thanksgivings that break out at the announcement of a conversion. Bliss wanted to include “Hallelujah! Thine the glory” ([No. 437]) in his Gospel Songs, 1874. The owner of the copyright refused permission whereupon Bliss wrote “Hallelujah! ’tis done”—both words and music—as a substitute.
Philip P. Bliss, a Congregationalist, born in Rome, Pa., was reared in the country. He had only the meagerest early advantages for the development of his musical talents but he made the most of them and became one of the greatest leaders and writers of evangelistic songs. Combining the gift of poet and musician, he succeeded in putting gospel truths in poetic and singable form, usually writing both words and music. In his early career he conducted musical conventions throughout the Middle West, served as director of music for the First Congregational Church in Chicago, and was connected with the music publishing house of Root and Cady in Chicago. Through the influence of D. L. Moody, he gave up his business and professional pursuits and entered the evangelistic field. He assisted Sankey in the editing of the series called Gospel Hymns, in which some of his own celebrated hymns and songs first appeared. His rare gifts as a singer and leader, combined with an impressive personality, made him one of the outstanding leaders in the evangelistic movement. His life came to an early and tragic end December 29, 1876, in a railroad disaster near Ashtabula, Ohio, while he and Mrs. Bliss were returning to Chicago from Rome, Pa., where the two had spent Christmas. A railroad bridge gave way, resulting in a wreck which took the lives of one hundred passengers. Bliss had escaped unhurt, but going back to rescue his wife, he was evidently overcome by the flames which had spread and was not seen again. His premature death at the age of 38 was widely lamented.
443. Come, we that love the Lord
Isaac Watts, 1674-1748
This hymn, entitled by Watts, “Heavenly Joy on Earth,” appeared in his Hymns and Sacred Songs, 1707.
For comments on Isaac Watts, see [Hymn 11].