Amazing Grace : 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions

January 23 GO YE INTO ALL THE WORLD Words and Music by James McGranahan, 1840–1907 Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. (Mark 16:15) Give us a watchword for the hour, a thrilling word, a word of power; A battlecry, a flaming breath that calls to conquer even death. A word to rouse the Church from rest, to heed the Master’s last request; The call is given: Christians arise, our watchword is EVANGELIZE! —Author unknown As members of the church of Jesus Christ, how we need to be reminded continually of our Lord’s final request! We settle down so easily in our individual comforts and in the security of our church routines. Worldwide evangelization will become a realistic possibility only when the Spirit of God renews His people personally with a vision and passion for the spiritual needs of a lost world … when in His power we are willing to go … to evangelize! James McGranahan, author and composer of this hymn, is a well-known name in the field of early gospel music. After the sudden death of Philip Bliss in 1876, McGranahan became the songleader in the evangelistic campaigns conducted by Major D. W. Whittle in England and throughout America. Known for his fine tenor voice and a commanding personality, he pioneered in using male choirs in his services. McGranahan collaborated with Ira Sankey and other gospel musicians in many publications. “Go Ye Into All the World” was widely used as a missionary challenge in their great crusade meetings. These words still speak pointedly to us today. Far, far away, in heathen darkness dwelling, millions of souls forever may be lost; who, who will go, salvation’s story telling, looking to Jesus, minding not the cost. See o’er the world wide open doors inviting—Soldiers of Christ, arise and enter in! Christians, awake! your forces all uniting, send forth the gospel; break the chains of sin. God speed the day, when those of ev’ry nation “Glory to God!” triumphantly shall sing; Ransomed, redeemed, rejoicing in salvation, shout “Hallelujah, for the Lord is King!” Chorus: “All pow’r is given unto Me; all pow’r is given unto Me; go ye into all the world and preach the gospel, and lo, I am with you alway.” For Today: Matthew 9:37, 38; 28:18–20; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4 Seek to read some pertinent article on the status of world missions. Ask God to show you a more significant role in this great endeavor. Meditate on the truth of Christ’s command in this hymn’s chorus— Kenneth W. Osbeck, Amazing Grace : 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Kregel Publications, 1990). 32.