James McGranahan Grave

Hymn History: Verily, Verily & Author: James McGranahan

“Though his health limited his hours of productivity, some of his best hymns were written during these days. McGranahan was a most lovable, gentle, modest, unassuming, gentleman, and a refined and cultured Christian.”
(Hymnary.org)

The Origin of the Hymn “Verily, Verily”

“Verily, Verily”—also known by its opening line, “Oh, what a Savior, that He died for me!”—is a cherished gospel song from the late 19th century. Written during the golden age of American hymnody, this hymn stands as an enduring expression of joy and assurance in the saving work of Christ. Its repetition of the phrase “verily, verily” highlights the hymn’s foundation in the biblical certainties of salvation, pointing believers back to the words of Jesus Himself.

The Hymnwriter: James McGranahan (1840–1907)

The author and composer of “Verily, Verily” was James McGranahan, a well-known American gospel musician, composer, tenor vocalist, and music teacher. Born in Pennsylvania in 1840, McGranahan showed an early aptitude for music, which he pursued both professionally and spiritually. He eventually became one of the prominent figures in the American gospel song movement of the late 19th century.

McGranahan’s musical talents led him to collaborate with other giants of gospel hymnody, including Major Daniel W. Whittle and Philip P. Bliss. He succeeded Bliss as a song leader after Bliss tragically died in a train accident in 1876. McGranahan’s partnership with Whittle was especially fruitful—producing many beloved hymns such as “There Shall Be Showers of Blessing” and “I Know Whom I Have Believed.”

While McGranahan composed the music for more than 75 hymns, he also wrote many hymn texts, including “Verily, Verily.” His singing voice was so exceptional that he was offered a prominent career as a classical vocalist—but he set aside the stage for the service of Christ.

The Inspiration and Context

“Verily, Verily” was published in 1878 during a time when evangelistic revivals were sweeping across America. Hymns played a crucial role in these gatherings, serving as vehicles of spiritual truth, encouragement, and decision. McGranahan’s composition was written for such revival efforts, designed to draw attention to the certainty of Christ’s redeeming work.

The central phrase “Verily, verily” was drawn directly from the words of Christ in the New Testament, especially from the Gospel of John, where Jesus uses the term dozens of times to affirm truth emphatically. In English, the word “verily” means “truly” or “certainly.” Jesus used the phrase to underscore the reliability of His teachings—particularly those that reveal His identity and mission.

In his hymn, McGranahan draws from the language of John 5:24:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life…”

By framing the lyrics around this biblical certainty, the hymn reminds believers that the gospel offers not probability or wishful thinking—but the firm and unshakeable truth of eternal life through Christ.

Structure and Content of the Hymn

“Verily, Verily” opens with a joyful proclamation:

“Oh, what a Savior, that He died for me!
From condemnation He hath made me free;
‘He that believeth on the Son,’ said He,
‘Hath everlasting life.’”

Each stanza highlights a different aspect of salvation: freedom from sin’s condemnation, the simplicity of faith, the assurance of resurrection, and the promise of eternal life. The chorus, repeating the words of Jesus, drives home the eternal security of the believer:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you,
Verily, verily, message ever new!”

The repetition of Christ’s words helps embed the truth in the singer’s heart, strengthening faith by reminding the believer of God’s promises.

Musical Elements and Usage

McGranahan composed both the text and the tune for “Verily, Verily,” giving the hymn a seamless unity of message and melody. The tune—joyful, major key, and simple in structure—supports the confident tone of the lyrics. Like many gospel hymns of the era, its refrain is memorable and designed for congregational singing.

The hymn was especially popular at evangelistic meetings in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where its message of assurance resonated with seekers and new believers alike. It also finds a place in many traditional hymnals still in use today, particularly in churches that emphasize clear affirmations of Bible truth.

Legacy

While not among the most frequently sung hymns in modern worship, “Verily, Verily” remains a bright jewel in the treasury of gospel song. It is still cherished by those who appreciate hymns of strong biblical grounding and heartfelt devotion. Its confident expression of salvation through faith alone makes it a hymn both of testimony and invitation, continuing to encourage believers with the same message Christ spoke nearly 2,000 years ago: “Verily, verily, I say unto you…”