Lewis Edgar Jones Grave

Hymn History: There Is Power in the Blood & Author: Lewis Edgar Jones

“Lewis Edgar Jones heard something – a special phrase that caught his attention … The 34‑year‑old Lewis Jones was still early in his Christian calling in 1899 … Yet what came from that simple practice? Songs that have lifted millions of hearts.”
(Don Chapman)

The Origin of the Hymn “There Is Power in the Blood”

The hymn “There Is Power in the Blood” is one of the most enduring and beloved gospel songs in Christian hymnody. Written in 1899 by Lewis Edgar Jones, this powerful hymn encapsulates the core message of Christian redemption: that salvation is made possible through the sacrificial blood of Jesus Christ. Inspiring countless congregations and evangelistic services over the past century, the hymn stands as a stirring testament to the central tenet of Christian faith—redemption through the cross.

Lewis Edgar Jones was born on February 8, 1865, in Yates City, Illinois. A devout Christian from a young age, Jones later pursued studies at the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, a center of evangelical fervor and missionary emphasis at the close of the 19th century. Jones was not only deeply rooted in Christian theology but was also gifted in music. His heartfelt desire was to express the truths of Scripture in ways that would be accessible and memorable, especially in revival and evangelistic settings.

The late 1800s were a time of great spiritual movement in the United States. Leaders like Dwight L. Moody and others led spirited revivals that emphasized personal salvation, repentance, and the necessity of a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. In these meetings, hymns were more than musical expressions; they were tools of persuasion, teaching, encouragement, and conversion. It was within this context that Jones composed “There Is Power in the Blood.”

First published in Songs of Praise and Victory in 1899, the hymn was set to music also composed by Jones, a testament to his dual skill as both lyricist and composer. The tune is spirited and uplifting, making it particularly well-suited for congregational singing. Its combination of a rousing melody and declarative lyrics helped it quickly gain popularity across churches and revival meetings.

The hymn’s text is both doctrinal and celebratory. The repeated refrain—“There is pow’r, pow’r, wonder-working pow’r / in the blood of the Lamb”—is a bold proclamation rooted in the biblical understanding of Christ’s atonement. The idea of the “Lamb” refers to Jesus Christ, echoing the language of the Gospel of John where John the Baptist declares Jesus to be “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).

The verses explore different aspects of the saving power of Christ’s blood. The first verse asks, “Would you be free from the burden of sin?,” speaking to the universal human desire for forgiveness and freedom from guilt. The second speaks of victory over evil, while the third and fourth focus on cleansing, transformation, and service. Throughout, Jones emphasizes that it is only the blood of Christ—shed at Calvary—that can accomplish these deep spiritual needs.

Jones’ inspiration clearly draws from Scripture, particularly the Epistle to the Hebrews, which states, “without the shedding of blood there is no remission [of sins]” (Hebrews 9:22). Other allusions can be found in Revelation 12:11, where believers are described as having “overcome [the accuser] by the blood of the Lamb.” These biblical truths form the backdrop for Jones’s hymn, which serves not only as a song of praise but also as a means of reinforcing essential Christian doctrine.

Over time, “There Is Power in the Blood” became especially associated with evangelistic crusades, tent meetings, and Sunday school gatherings. Its lively tempo made it easy to sing, while its deep message gave worshipers a sense of joy and assurance in their faith. It also became a favorite among gospel quartets and choirs, further cementing its place in American religious culture.

Lewis E. Jones went on to write numerous other hymns, but none achieved the same widespread recognition. His work on “There Is Power in the Blood” is perhaps his most significant contribution to Christian hymnody, leaving a legacy that continues to impact worshipers today.

Over a century after its composition, “There Is Power in the Blood” remains a staple in many hymnals. Its timeless message speaks not only to the heart of Christian belief but also to the soul’s longing for redemption and peace. In a world searching for answers, the hymn offers the enduring and unchanging hope found in the atoning work of Jesus Christ.