Actually, the lyrics were written in the 19th century as a processional hymn for children at Horbury Bridge, near Wakefield, Yorkshire. It was originally entitled, "Hymn for Procession with Cross and Banners."
According to the Center for Church Music, Sabine Baring-Gould reportedly wrote Onward Christian Soldiers in about 15 minutes!
In the author's words, years after it was first written:
"Whit-Monday is a great day for school festivals in Yorkshire. One Whit-Monday, thirty years ago, it was arranged that our school should join forces with that of a neighboring village. I wanted the children to sing when marching from one village to another, but couldn’t think of anything quite suitable; so I sat up at night, resolved that I would write something myself. “Onward, Christian Soldiers” was the result. It was written in great haste, and I am afraid some of the rhymes are faulty. Certainly nothing has surprised me more than its popularity."
I've always figured it was about being a 'soldier for Christ', and I remember when it was sung in church when I was much younger (I'm not even sure it's sung much any more), it was sung with much enthusiasm.
For this old guy, I guess it was a forerunner to the more modern song "Run to the Battle", with which I began this blog. Anyway, I wanted to share it with the readers here, many of whom may have never heard it. Here are the lyrics:
Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus going on before.
Christ, the royal Master, leads against the foe;
Forward into battle see His banners go!
Refrain:
Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus going on before.
At the sign of triumph Satan’s host doth flee;
On then, Christian soldiers, on to victory!
Hell’s foundations quiver at the shout of praise;
Brothers lift your voices, loud your anthems raise.
Like a mighty army moves the church of God;
Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod.
We are not divided, all one body we,
One in hope and doctrine, one in charity.
What the saints established that I hold for true.
What the saints believèd, that I believe too.
Long as earth endureth, men the faith will hold,
Kingdoms, nations, empires, in destruction rolled.
Crowns and thrones may perish, kingdoms rise and wane,
But the church of Jesus constant will remain.
Gates of hell can never gainst that church prevail;
We have Christ’s own promise, and that cannot fail.
Onward then, ye people, join our happy throng,
Blend with ours your voices in the triumph song.
Glory, laud and honor unto Christ the King,
This through countless ages men and angels sing.
My God richly bless you and use you mightily in the battle for souls!
B4B