Onward Christian Soldiers
Fountainview Academy
“Onward, Christian Soldiers” is one of the great hymns of Christian commitment, unity, and spiritual courage. Written by Sabine Baring-Gould in 1865 and set to Arthur Sullivan’s famous tune St. Gertrude in 1871, the hymn uses the imagery of a marching army to describe the Church moving forward together under the leadership of Jesus Christ. More than a century and a half later, its central message remains remarkably relevant: the Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation, and the Church is called to move forward together in faith.
One of the most powerful verses is also one that speaks directly to the challenges facing the Church today: “We are not divided, all one body we, one in hope and doctrine, one in charity.” The hymn reminds us that our strength does not come from our individual preferences, personalities, or differences, but from the fact that we belong to one Body and follow one Lord.
That message of unity is at the heart of FishWorship’s Call to Action as well. We may not agree on everything, but we can agree on the most important thing of all: Jesus Christ.
For this week’s Hymn of the Week, we’re featuring a stirring performance by Fountainview Academy, whose orchestra and singers bring new energy to this timeless hymn. Their performance reminds us that the words of an old hymn can still sound remarkably fresh when they are sung with conviction—and that the call to follow Christ, stand together, and move forward in faith is never outdated.
So as you listen, don’t hear “Onward, Christian Soldiers” simply as a hymn from another era. Hear it as an invitation to the Church today: set aside the things that divide us, remember the One who unites us, and move forward together for Jesus Christ.
Join us each week as we revisit the timeless hymns that have encouraged generations of believers and continue to proclaim the hope, grace, and love of Jesus Christ today.