Stories behind the Hymns
Teachers
Lesson Summary
The class began with a lively rendition of "I Gave My Life for Thee" and an outline of the session’s six parts: introduction, author background, historical context, lyric analysis, theological implications, and musical considerations. Teacher Adam Clark introduced the hymn’s writers—Francis Ridley Havergal and her father’s later musical contribution—and traced its origins to a 17th‑century "Ecce Homo" painting that Havergal saw in a German pastor’s study. The Latin caption beneath the painting, translating to “I have suffered these things for you; what truly have you done for me?” prompted Havergan to craft verses that, while appearing transactional, actually echoed Christ’s first‑person perspective. The discussion moved to the song’s theological depth, noting the lack of direct "red‑letter" words from Jesus yet recognizing the hymn’s invitation to consider our response to the cross. By comparing modern commercial exchanges with the gospel’s call to sacrificial love, the class highlighted the danger of shallow interpretations. Concluding, the group reflected on how the hymn challenges believers to shift from a one‑sided dialogue to a heart‑felt gratitude, encouraging practical ways to let the song shape worship and daily living.
Key Scriptures
Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe, and they went to him again and again, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!' And they slapped him in the face. Once more, Pilate came out and said to the Jews, gathered there, 'Look, I'm bringing him out to you to let you know that I find no basis for a charge against him.' And when Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe, Pilate said to them, 'Here is the man.'