Lyrics
Verse 1
I have decided to follow Jesus,
I have decided to follow Jesus,
I have decided to follow Jesus,
No turning back, no turning back.
Verse 2
The world behind me, the cross before me,
The world behind me, the cross before me,
The world behind me, the cross before me,
No turning back, no turning back.
Verse 3
Though none go with me, still I will follow,
Though none go with me, still I will follow,
Though none go with me, still I will follow,
No turning back, no turning back.
Verse 4
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus,
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus,
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus,
No turning back, no turning back.
Verse 5
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus,
Will you decide now to follow Jesus,
No turning back, no turning back.
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” in this Elevation Worship version keeps the familiar hymn pattern of three lines of commitment followed by the refrain “No turning back, no turning back.” The verses state the choice plainly: the world behind and the cross before, following even when none go along, and carrying the cross until the singer sees Jesus.
The language of the cross is close to Luke 9:23, where Jesus says that anyone who would follow Him must take up the cross daily. The phrase “no turning back” recalls Luke 9:62, which speaks of not looking back after putting a hand to the plow. The line about following when none go along reflects Matthew 16:24 in its call to deny self.
The last verse changes from first person to a question for the listener: “Will you decide now to follow Jesus?” That makes the hymn an invitation as well as a vow. The repetition gives it a steady, marching feel. The message is a settled decision to follow Christ whatever the cost.
Related Scripture
- Luke 9:23 Take up the cross daily and follow Jesus
- Luke 9:62 No one who looks back is fit for the kingdom
- Matthew 16:24 Deny self, take up the cross, and follow