The Story Behind the Hymn “There Is a Redeemer”
Written by G Njuguna on March 24, 2024
Have you ever wondered about the inspiration and story behind classic Christian hymns? Many popular songs of faith have intriguing tales of how they came to be. One such hymn is “There Is a Redeemer,” written in the 1970s yet feeling timeless in its message of hope. In this post, we’ll explore the history and meaning of this beloved song through the lens of its composer.
Melody Green’s Test of Faith
The hymn “There Is a Redeemer” was written in 1976 by gospel singer and songwriter Melody Green. At the time, Melody was going through an incredibly difficult season of doubt stemming from personal struggles and loss of direction. Having grown up in the church, she struggled with questions of faith and purpose as an adult. After the sudden death of her mother, Melody sank into a deep depression. She found herself questioning whether God was truly present or if He had abandoned her in her pain.
During this low point, Melody felt spiritually and emotionally bankrupt. In the depths of her crisis of faith, she turned to Scripture for answers. One passage that stood out was Job 19:25, which states “I know that my redeemer lives.” These words resonated deeply with Melody and gave her hope that God had not forsaken her, even in the midst of her suffering and unanswered questions. She took comfort knowing that there was one who understood her struggles – Jesus Christ, her redeemer.
Lyrics Born of Hardship
Melody poured her heart and soul into crafting lyrics that portrayed both her anguish and newfound assurance. The result was a hymn proclaiming a powerful message of redemption even in our darkest valleys. Each verse focuses on a different aspect of Jesus Christ as our redeemer, rescuing us from sin, death, and ultimate destruction through his atoning sacrifice.
The familiar chorus declares:
“I know that my Redeemer lives
What comfort this sweet sentence gives!
He lives, he lives, who once was dead;
He lives, my ever-living Head.”
Through putting pen to paper, Melody was able to process and release the deep emotions she was working through. Crafting the song allowed God to minister hope, healing, and purpose to Melody right where she was. In her pain, she found solace – and in sharing her story of redemption, she pointed others to the One who rescues.
A Message For All Times
Released in the 1970s, “There Is a Redeemer” quickly gained popularity in the Christian music scene. Its lyrical depth spoken Melody’s personal journey truly resonated with listeners worldwide. Despite being written during a moment of darkness, the hymn exudes brightness and assurance through its focus on Christ’s victory over sin and death.
Nearly 50 years later, the hymn remains a staple in hymnals and worship sets across denominations. Its universal message of redemption through Jesus connects deeply with believers today as it did generations ago. Whether one is walking through trials or basking in joy, its lyrics remind us that in any season, Christ is our living hope.
Applying the Lesson Today
The story behind “There Is a Redeemer” shows how even our greatest difficulties can be redeemed by God for His glory and our good. While we may struggle to understand His purposes, we can take comfort knowing that He works all things for our gain and His. Like Melody, when we pour out our honest questions and lament before the Lord, He meets us in our need. And through sharing our testimony of how He brought us through, we can point others to the only One who rescues – Jesus, our living Redeemer.
This beloved hymn is a powerful reminder that no matter what challenges we face, no matter how broken or buried we feel, our God reigns victorious over every earthly trouble through Christ. And one day soon, we will join Him in eternity free from every tear, sorrow, and pain forevermore. Until that glorious day, may “There Is a Redeemer” continue inspiring hope in believers around the world.
Denise Tilbury On June 1, 2024 at 3:26 pm
May I have your permission to reprint The Story Behind the Hymn: There is a Redeemer in my church’s magazine The Highlight. Northcliff Union Church is in Fairland, Johannesburg, South Africa. The Highlight is free and not sold for profit.