Why “I Surrender All” Still Applies

There is a growing movement within evangelical Christianity and fundamentalism that treats the revival era, especially the century between 1850 and 1950 with disdain. I am concerned that we do this to our own hurt. While there were excesses within that era—especially the formulaic manipulation of Finney-ism--God also did wonderful works of grace, not only in the lives of individuals but in Bible-believing Christianity around the world. The greatest missionary efforts since the Apostles occurred during that century and the gospel has spread to almost every corner of the globe.

The criticism of the revival era has extended to—or maybe even extended from—the music of the era. Certainly, many of the tunes of the time seem simplistic and anachronist now, and some of the lyrics can seem overly emotional. But we are emotional people and our faith impacts our emotions. I cringe when I hear criticism of the revival era invitation songs like I Surrender All, Have Thine Own Way, and Nothing Between. This is especially so when the criticism extends to revival-era terminology used in those songs—like the word “surrender.”

Surrendering to our Lord is an essential sanctification principle and we dare not minimize it.

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