The Story Behind the Hymn

When did the church begin singing? The answer reaches back to Jesus himself, who sang with his disciples on the night before the cross. In this episode, David Wollen is joined by Robert Morgan to explore the origins of hymns and why these songs—rooted in the truth of Christ—still strengthen and encourage the church today.

Some hymns have endured for centuries—but what gives them such lasting power? In this episode, David Wollen is joined by Robert Morgan to explore how great hymns, rooted in Scripture and shaped by real-life experiences, continue to strengthen faith and give voice to the joys and sorrows of the Christian life.

Some of the most enduring hymns were written in seasons of both joy and sorrow. In this episode, David Wollen continues his conversation with Robert Morgan, looking at the story behind It Is Well with My Soul and how God uses every circumstance to shape songs that strengthen His people.

How could a grieving parent say, “It is well,” in the face of unimaginable loss? In this episode, David Wollen continues his conversation with Robert Morgan, exploring the story behind It Is Well with My Soul and the deeper biblical hope that makes such faith possible—even in life’s darkest moments.

Some of the greatest hymns were written out of deep suffering—and deep reflection on God’s Word. In this episode, David Wollen continues his conversation with Robert Morgan, sharing the story behind Just As I Am and the powerful message of grace that calls us to come to Christ just as we are.

He’s been called the Father of Hymnody—even if you don’t recognize his name, you’ve likely sung his words. In this episode, David Wollen continues his conversation with Robert Morgan, exploring the life of Isaac Watts and how God used his hymns to help the church sing the truth of the Gospel with renewed clarity and joy.

What happens when a pastor realizes he doesn’t truly know Christ? In this episode, David Wollen continues his conversation with Robert Morgan, sharing the story of Henry Lyte—whose journey from relying on works to resting in grace led to one of the church’s most beloved hymns, Abide with Me.

“Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it.” Few hymns capture the human heart so honestly. In this episode, David Wollen continues his conversation with Robert Morgan, exploring the story behind Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing and the sobering life of its author—reminding us of the need to hold fast to Christ and finish well.

He was a barefoot farm boy with a gift for music—but everything changed when he was called to “sing the Gospel.” In this episode, David Wollen continues his conversation with Robert Morgan, sharing the remarkable story of Philip Bliss and how God used his life and hymns to lead many to Christ.

From a poem written in Sweden to a hymn sung around the world, How Great Thou Art has a remarkable story. In this episode, David Wollen concludes his conversation with Robert Morgan, exploring how this beloved hymn spread across cultures—and how God continues to use songs like it to draw hearts to Himself.