Behold the Lamb

“Behold the Lamb” is a reverent and gospel-rich hymn by Joseph Hoskins, an English hymn writer of the eighteenth century. The hymn draws its central theme directly from the proclamation of John the Baptist, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29, KJV). From its opening thought to its closing hope, the hymn invites the worshiper to fix the eyes of faith upon Jesus Christ as the once-for-all sacrifice for sin. Hoskins does not present Christ merely as an example or moral teacher, but as the appointed Lamb whose death secures redemption and peace with God.

The language of the hymn is deeply rooted in the sacrificial imagery of Scripture. It reflects Isaiah’s prophecy of the suffering servant, who was led as a lamb to the slaughter and bore the sins of many (Isaiah 53:6-7, KJV). Hoskins presents Christ as innocent, willing, and sufficient, emphasizing that salvation rests entirely upon His atoning work. The hymn calls believers not to trust in their own righteousness, but to look away from themselves and unto the Lamb provided by God.

A strong note of assurance runs throughout the hymn. By pointing to Christ’s finished sacrifice, it echoes the teaching of Hebrews that Jesus “once in the end of the world hath appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself” (Hebrews 9:26, KJV). Redemption is portrayed as complete, effective, and eternally secure, grounded in the precious blood of Christ rather than human effort (1 Peter 1:18-21, KJV). This makes the hymn especially suitable for communion services and seasons of reflection on the cross.

The hymn also lifts the gaze of the church toward heaven, where the Lamb who was slain is now exalted. It anticipates the worship of the redeemed multitude described in Revelation, who stand before the throne and the Lamb, clothed in white robes and filled with everlasting joy (Revelation 7:9-17, KJV). “Behold the Lamb” thus unites the cross and the crown, calling believers to worship Christ both as the suffering Savior and the triumphant Redeemer, worthy of all praise forever.