A Soul-Winner for Jesus

By J. W. Ferrill

Lyrics

1. . I want to be a soul winner for Jesus ev'ry day,
He does so much for me;
I want to aid the lost sinner to leave his erring way,
And be from bondage free.

Chorus:
A soul winner for Jesus, A soul winner for Jesus,
O let me be each day; A soul winner for Jesus,
A soul winner for Jesus,
He's done so much for me.

2. . I want to be a soul winner and bring the lost to Christ,
That they His grace may know;
I want to live for Christ ever, and do His blessed will,
Because He loves me so.

3. . I want to be a soul winner till Jesus calls for me,
To lay my burdens down;
I want to hear Him say, servant, "You've gathered many sheaves,
Receive a shining crown."

Bible Reference

Proverbs 11:30

About This Hymn

Hymn Background: A Soul-Winner for Jesus
Words & Music: J. W. Ferrill
Year: Early 20th Century (c. 1910s–1920s)

A Soul-Winner for Jesus is a heartfelt gospel hymn written and composed by J. W. Ferrill, a relatively lesser-known hymn writer whose work nonetheless made a lasting impact through this beloved evangelistic song. Though detailed biographical information about Ferrill is scarce, the message of the hymn clearly reflects a deep personal passion for evangelism and spiritual outreach—a common focus of early 20th-century revivalism and the personal holiness movement.

The hymn's repeated refrain, "I want to be a soul-winner for Jesus every day," expresses the earnest desire of a believer to fulfill the Great Commission, not just occasionally, but as a daily calling. It reflects the spirit of Proverbs 11:30—“he that winneth souls is wise”—and the urgency of Jesus’ own words about going into the world to share the gospel.

With its simple yet stirring melody and clear message, A Soul-Winner for Jesus has long been used in revival meetings, personal consecration services, and missions-focused gatherings. It continues to challenge and inspire believers to share the love of Christ and to be active participants in the work of spiritual harvest.