Verse 1
O for a thousand tongues to sing
My great Redeemer's praise
The glories of my God and King
The triumphs of His grace
Verse 2
My gracious Master and my God
Assist me to proclaim
To spread thru all the earth abroad
The honors of Thy name
Verse 3
Jesus the name that charms our fears
That bids our sorrows cease
'Tis music in the sinner's ears
'Tis life and health and peace
Chorus 1
Sing His praise sing the triumphs of His grace
Sing His praise sing it loud
Sing His praise sing the honors of His name
Sing His praise sing it loud
Verse 4
He breaks the pow'r of cancelled sin
He sets the pris'ner free
His blood can make the foulest clean
His blood availed for me
Chorus 2
Sing His praise sing the triumphs of His grace
Sing His praise sing it loud
Sing His praise sing the honors of His name
Sing His praise sing it loud
O for A Thousand Tongues to Sing Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing" is a hymn that has been cherished by Christians for centuries, with its origins dating back to Charles Wesley in 1739. The version by Tommy Walker brings a contemporary touch to this classic hymn, enriching it with a modern musical arrangement while preserving the profound theological truths and praises contained within the lyrics. This hymn is a vibrant call to worship, celebrating the transformative power of Jesus Christ and His grace in the lives of believers.
The hymn begins with a longing to have a thousand tongues to sing the praises of the Redeemer, Jesus Christ. This opening line encapsulates a deep yearning to express boundless gratitude and worship for the myriad ways in which Christ manifests His love and grace. It reflects the psalmist's declaration in Psalm 51:15, "O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise." The mention of a thousand tongues is symbolic, representing an infinite number of ways to praise God for His infinite goodness.
As the song progresses, it transitions into a recognition of Jesus as both a gracious Master and God. This acknowledgment is a call to proclaim the power and honor of His name throughout the earth, aligning with Psalm 105:1, "Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done." It emphasizes the duty and privilege of believers to spread the gospel and make known the greatness of God's character.
The third verse delves into the personal impact of Jesus' name on believers, noting how it dispels fears and brings peace. This echoes Philippians 2:9-11, which speaks of the name of Jesus being above every name, causing every knee to bow in heaven and on earth. The mention of Jesus' name as music to the sinner's ears, and as bringing life, health, and peace, underscores the saving and transformative power of Christ's sacrifice and resurrection.
In discussing the power of Jesus to break the chains of sin and set prisoners free, the hymn reflects the message of Romans 8:2, "For in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life has set you free from the law of sin and death." This verse highlights the victory believers have in Christ over sin and the liberation that comes through His blood, which washes away the foulest stains of sin.
Throughout the hymn, the recurring call to sing praises to Jesus serves as a reminder of the continual need for worship and gratitude towards God for His indescribable gift (2 Corinthians 9:15). The emphasis on singing the triumphs of His grace and the honors of His name encourages believers to maintain a posture of worship, recognizing the countless reasons to praise God for His grace, mercy, and love.
In conclusion, Tommy Walker's rendition of "O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing" is a powerful expression of worship and adoration towards Jesus Christ. It captures the essence of Christian praise, focusing on the magnificent grace of God, the redeeming power of Jesus' blood, and the joy of proclaiming His name to the world. This hymn is a timeless anthem that calls believers to a deeper appreciation of their Savior and a more fervent declaration of His goodness and grace.
