Story Behind the Song My Jesus I Love Thee Hymn


"My Jesus I Love Thee" is a powerful and beloved Christian hymn that has touched the hearts of believers for over a century. The hymn was written by William Ralph Featherston, a young Canadian theologian who lived a short but impactful life. Born on July 24, 1846 in Montreal, Canada, Featherston died just before his 27th birthday. Despite his brief time on earth, his love poem, "My Jesus I Love Thee," has lived on for over 130 years.

Featherston's poem was put to music by Adoniram Gordon in 1876 and included in a hymnal published that same year. Since then, "My Jesus I Love Thee" has been recorded in most evangelical hymnals and is loved and sung by millions of Christians around the world. The hymn's message of deep and true love for Jesus and a desire to follow Him no matter the cost has resonated with believers of all ages.

If you're looking to learn more about the beautiful hymn "My Jesus I Love Thee," be sure to visit our website. We have a wealth of information about the hymn's history, lyrics, and meaning, as well as resources for learning how to sing it. Whether you're a seasoned worship leader or simply someone who loves to sing hymns, you'll find something of value on our site. So why wait? Start exploring today and discover the timeless message of "My Jesus I Love Thee."
My Jesus, I Love Thee

My Jesus, I love Thee, I know Thou art mine;
For Thee all the follies of sin I resign.
My gracious Redeemer, my Savior art Thou;
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus 'tis now.

I love Thee because Thou has first loved me
And purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree.
I love Thee for wearing the thorns on Thy brow;
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus 'tis now.

I love Thee in life, I will love Thee in death,
And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath;
And say when the death dew lies cold on my brow,
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus 'tis now.

In Mansions of glory and endless delight,
I'll ever adore Thee in heaven so bright;
I'll sing with the glittering crown on my brow;
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, 'tis now.

We love Him because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

Here is a modern rendition of the song by Darlene Zschech