How Shall They Hear the Word of God

“How Shall They Hear the Word of God” was written by Michael A. Perry in 1986. The text is based primarily on Romans 10:14-15, where the Apostle Paul asks, “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?” (KJV). The hymn develops this biblical argument into a congregational call to mission.

The structure follows the logic of proclamation. Each stanza reflects the necessity of sending, preaching, and responding. The text does not treat evangelism as the task of a few, but as the shared responsibility of the Church. The language emphasizes obedience to Christ’s commission in Matthew 28:19-20 and the readiness expressed in Isaiah 6:8, “Here am I; send me.”

The hymn avoids abstract language and instead focuses on practical witness. It presents proclamation as both verbal and incarnational, recognizing that the message must be carried by willing servants. The tone is direct and exhortative, consistent with Perry’s approach to hymn writing, which often combined biblical clarity with contemporary expression.

Included as number 649 in The United Methodist Hymnal of 1989, the hymn is commonly used in services centered on mission, evangelism, and commissioning. It is suitable for missionary observances, ordinations, or congregational dedication to outreach.

“How Shall They Hear the Word of God” stands as a late twentieth century missionary hymn rooted in scriptural mandate. Its text reinforces the necessity of preaching Christ and underscores the responsibility of believers to ensure that the gospel is heard.