“I Surrender All” stands as a timeless hymn, resonating deeply within the hearts of Christians across generations. Its powerful message of complete devotion and surrender to Jesus Christ continues to inspire and challenge believers worldwide. But beyond its familiar melody and poignant lyrics lies a compelling story of its origin and the profound impact it has had on countless lives.
The lyrics of this cherished hymn were penned by Judson W. Van DeVenter, a man of notable artistic talent and deep faith, around 1896. Van DeVenter wasn’t primarily known as a songwriter; his life was dedicated to art. He excelled as an art teacher and supervisor in public schools, nurturing creativity in young minds. Simultaneously, he was an active and devoted member of his church, deeply involved in evangelistic endeavors. This duality in his calling – art and evangelism – created an internal conflict. His friends and fellow church members recognized his fervent spirit and urged him to dedicate his life fully to evangelistic work, stepping away from his established career in art.
This period of internal wrestling and ultimate decision is beautifully captured in Van DeVenter’s own words:
“The song was written while I was conducting a meeting at East Palestine, Ohio… For some time I had struggled between developing my talents in the field of art and going into full-time evangelistic work. At last the pivotal hour of my life came, and I surrendered all. A new day was ushered into my life. I became an evangelist and discovered down deep in my soul a talent hitherto unknown to me. God had hidden a song in my heart, and touching a tender chord, he caused me to sing.”
This pivotal moment of surrender in East Palestine, Ohio, became the birthplace of “I Surrender All”. It was a personal declaration of releasing his own ambitions and plans to fully embrace God’s calling. The melody that so perfectly complements Van DeVenter’s heartfelt words was composed later by Winfield S. Weeden, and together, words and music, the hymn was published in 1896, quickly finding its way into hymnals and the hearts of worshippers.
The impact of “I Surrender All” extends far beyond its initial creation. The song’s message of total surrender has profoundly touched individuals throughout history, guiding them towards deeper faith and commitment. One remarkable example is the story of William Borden, heir to the immense Borden family fortune. After graduating high school, Borden embarked on a year-long journey around the world, a privilege afforded by his wealth. However, it wasn’t worldly travel but a spiritual encounter that truly transformed his life.
The account of Borden’s conversion is particularly moving:
On July 2, 1905, he attended meetings in London focused on the assurance of salvation. Bill was deeply impacted by the message. Following the sermon, a soloist sang ‘I Surrender All’. Overwhelmed with conviction, Bill stood alongside others and sang the chorus with profound sincerity: “I surrender all; I surrender all. All to Thee, my blessed Saviour, I surrender all.” He was just seventeen years old, but this moment marked a definitive turning point. Returning home, Borden divested vast portions of his inheritance and dedicated himself to missionary service among Muslims in China. Tragically, he passed away from spinal meningitis in Egypt, en route to China, at the young age of twenty-five. Despite his short life, William Borden’s unwavering commitment, encapsulated in his personal motto: “No Reserve. No Retreat. No Regrets,” has inspired generations for over a century.
Borden’s story exemplifies the radical transformation that genuine surrender can bring. “I Surrender All” was not just a song he sang; it was a principle he lived by, guiding his decisions and shaping his destiny.
The enduring power of “I Surrender All” lies in its simple yet profound lyrics. Each verse is a step deeper into the commitment of surrender:
I surrender all, I surrender all,
All to thee, my blessed Saviour,
I surrender all.
This opening chorus is a bold declaration of complete relinquishment. It’s a conscious choice to release control and offer every aspect of life to Christ.
All to Jesus I surrender,
All to him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust him,
In his presence daily live.
This verse emphasizes the voluntary nature of surrender – a “freely give” offering of love and trust. It speaks to a desire for constant communion with Christ, to live daily in His presence.
All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at his feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken,
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
Here, surrender is linked with humility and a rejection of fleeting worldly desires. It’s a plea for Jesus to take complete ownership and control.
All to Jesus I surrender;
Make me, Saviour, wholly thine;
Let me feel the Holy Spirit,
Truly know that thou art mine.
This verse expresses a yearning for spiritual transformation, to be made “wholly thine” by Christ. It’s a prayer for the Holy Spirit’s presence and the assurance of belonging to God.
All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to thee,
Fill me with thy love and power,
Let thy blessing fall on me.
Surrender is presented as an act of giving oneself fully to God, inviting His love, power, and blessing to permeate every part of life.
All to Jesus I surrender;
Now I feel the sacred flame.
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory, to his name!
The final verse culminates in the joyous experience of salvation and the “sacred flame” of God’s presence. It’s a triumphant declaration of the joy and glory found in complete surrender.
“I Surrender All” is more than just a song; it’s an invitation. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and consider what it truly means to surrender every aspect of our lives to Jesus Christ. It’s a call to a life of complete devotion, trust, and unwavering faith. Take a moment to reflect on these powerful words and allow them to resonate within your own soul. What does surrender mean to you, and what areas of your life are you being called to fully surrender to Him?
