Hymn Overview This is the Christ – Hymn #1017
- Title and Number: “This is the Christ,” Hymn #1017.
- Composers and Lyricists: The lyrics were written by James E. Faust, a member of the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the time, and Jan Underwood Pinborough, who collaborated to craft the words. The music was composed by Michael Finlinson Moody in 1995.
- Key Lines: A notable line from the hymn is the repeated phrase, “This is the Christ,” which serves as a powerful affirmation of faith in Jesus Christ as the Savior.
- Historical Context:
- This hymn was not included in previous LDS hymnbooks, making its appearance in the new hymnbook a significant addition.
- Since it was composed in 1995, it wasn’t part of the original LDS hymnbook compiled by Emma Smith or earlier editions.
Cultural and Religious Significance
- Presence Outside LDS Culture: This hymn is relatively unique to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is not commonly found outside the LDS tradition.
- Central Theme and Doctrine: The hymn centers on the testimony of Jesus Christ as the Savior. It portrays the story of Christ’s ministry, Atonement, and the witness that He is indeed the Messiah. It strongly emphasizes the core LDS doctrine of Jesus Christ as the Redeemer.
- Fulfillment of Hymn Selection Criteria:
- Increase faith in and worship of Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ: The hymn invites worshippers to reflect on and bear testimony of Jesus Christ.
- Teach core doctrine with power and clarity: It clearly teaches the doctrine of Christ’s Atonement, divinity, and mission.
- Invite joyful singing at home and church: With its powerful melody and lyrics, it inspires reverence and joy.
- Comfort the weary and inspire endurance in faith: The message of Christ’s love and sacrifice offers comfort and strength.
- Unify Latter-day Saints and others throughout the world: It serves as a unifying testimony of Christ’s divinity.
Inclusion Rationale
- Why is it included in the new hymnbook?
- Given that it wasn’t part of previous hymnbooks, its inclusion likely reflects a desire to add more modern compositions that bear witness to Jesus Christ. As the Church emphasizes Christ-centered worship, “This is the Christ” fits well with this goal.
Impact and Reception
- Initial Reactions/Feedback: The hymn has often been praised for its deep, spiritual message and the powerful combination of lyrics and music. It is commonly performed in General Conferences and other church settings, and it has resonated deeply with many members of the Church.
- Potential Impact on Worship Services and Personal Study: This hymn is likely to enhance worship experiences by inviting deep reflection on Jesus Christ and His role as Savior. It can be used effectively in sacrament meetings, devotionals, and personal study to reinforce testimonies of Christ.
Additional Notes
- Interesting Fact: James E. Faust, one of the lyricists, served as a member of the First Presidency, lending an added layer of spiritual significance to the hymn’s message. Michael Finlinson Moody, the composer, served for many years as a music chairman for the Church, contributing significantly to the development of LDS music.
“This is the Christ” is a hymn that holds a special place in the hearts of many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was written by James E. Faust, a member of the First Presidency, and Jan Underwood Pinborough, with music composed by Michael Finlinson Moody in 19951.
- The hymn was created to express a deep testimony of Jesus Christ and His divine mission. James E. Faust, who was deeply moved by the Savior’s sacrifice and love, wanted to convey these profound feelings through music. The lyrics reflect a personal witness of Christ’s divinity and His role as the Redeemer of mankind.
The primary purpose of “This is the Christ” was to provide a powerful, musical testimony of Jesus Christ that could be shared in worship services and personal devotion. The hymn aims to strengthen faith and provide comfort by focusing on the Savior’s atoning sacrifice and His love for all humanity1.
Since its creation, “This is the Christ” has been included in various Church publications, such as the Ensign magazine and the Church’s music library. It has been performed in numerous Church meetings and events, becoming a beloved hymn among members.
This hymn beautifully encapsulates the core belief in Christ’s divinity and His central role in the plan of salvation, making it a powerful addition to the new LDS hymnbook.
They heard a voice, a voice so mild.
It pierced them through and made their souls to quake.
They saw Him come, a man in white,
The Savior, who had suffered for their sake.
They felt the wounds in hands and side,
And each could testify: This is the Christ.
This is the Christ, the holy Son of God—
Our Savior, Lord, Redeemer of mankind.
This is the Christ, the Healer of our souls,
Who ransomed us with love divine.
I read His words, the words He prayed
While bearing sorrow in Gethsemane.
I feel His love, the price He paid.
How many drops of blood were spilled for me?
With Saints of old in joyful cry
I too can testify: This is the Christ.
This is the Christ, the holy Son of God—
Our Savior, Lord, Redeemer of mankind.
This is the Christ, the Healer of our souls,
Who ransomed us with love divine.
After His Resurrection, Jesus Christ visited a group of faithful people in the ancient Americas who were awaiting His prophesied appearance. Verse 1 refers to that sacred event (see 3 Nephi 11). Verse 2 describes how we feel today as we read about His great atoning sacrifice.
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