Hymns have shaped the faith of generations, offering timeless theology in singable form. In this episode, Robert J. Morgan, author of The Origin of Hymns, shares the stories behind 50 of the most cherished hymns and explains why these songs continue to strengthen faith today. Featured in the new movie I Can Only Imagine 2, Morgan’s book dives deep into the history, meaning, and spiritual power of classic worship songs.

Highlights

• How The Origin of Hymns became tied to the making of I Can Only Imagine 2, and why it was written after the film was shot.

• What defines a hymn: “singable theology” rooted in Scripture, as opposed to modern worship songs that often focus on us rather than God.

• The importance of hymns in preserving theology, history, and longevity in worship.

• Stories behind key hymns such as It Is Well With My Soul, Blessed Assurance, Jesus Is Mine, and A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.

• How singing hymns connects us to generations of believers, embedding Scripture and faith into our memories.

• Practical ways to incorporate a “hymn habit” into daily devotionals for spiritual growth.

• Morgan’s personal journey with hymns, from childhood exposure to research, writing, and publishing multiple books on the topic.

• Insights into the history of hymnody—from Exodus 15 to Latin, German, English hymns, gospel songs, and modern praise and worship music.

About Pastor Robert J. Morgan

Pastor Morgan is the author of numerous faith-based books including Then Sings My Soul, Red Sea Rules, and 100 Bible Verses That Changed the World. He serves as Associate Pastor of World Outreach Church in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and has spent decades studying and writing about hymns and biblical wisdom.

Resources Mentioned

• The Origin of Hymns

• I Can Only Imagine 2

• World Outreach Church

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