Onward, Christian Soldiers

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Onward Christian Soldiers

Words by Sabine Baring-Gould (1834-1924), in Church Times, 1865

Tune: ST. GERTRUDE, by Arthur S. Sullivan (1842-1900), 1871

Key signature: E flat major (3 flats)

Public Domain

Organ Performance at Hymns Without Words

1. 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!

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. What the saints established That I hold for true. What the saints believed, That I believe too. Long as earth endureth, Men the faith will hold—Kingdoms, nations, empires, In destruction rolled.

5. 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.

6. 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.

Refrain: Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war, With the cross of Jesus going on before.