I Know That My Redeemer Lives

“I Know That My Redeemer Lives” is one of the most enduring hymns of Christian assurance, written by Samuel Medley in 1775. The hymn is based on Job 19:25, where Job declares, “For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth.” This verse, spoken in the midst of Job’s suffering, expresses unshakable confidence in God’s redemptive power. Medley captured this same spirit of unwavering faith in his hymn, turning a biblical proclamation into a song of joyful testimony.

Samuel Medley, a former sailor who became a preacher after his conversion, wrote many hymns that expressed strong evangelical convictions. “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” stands out for its clarity and exuberance. It was first published in 1775 and quickly became a favorite in congregational singing, especially in English-speaking churches. Its language is both personal and triumphant, moving beyond doctrinal affirmation to heartfelt praise.

The hymn typically opens with a confident statement of faith, affirming the living Redeemer, and then unfolds in a series of stanzas that celebrate Christ’s ongoing presence, power, and work in the believer’s life. It highlights themes of resurrection, divine intercession, and the believer’s future hope. Many versions emphasize Christ’s role as intercessor and advocate, echoing passages such as Hebrews 7:25, which speaks of Jesus’ continual intercession for His people.

Medley’s background as a preacher and his deep grasp of Scripture shine through in the hymn’s structure. Each line builds upon the believer’s assurance that Christ not only lives but reigns, hears, and saves. Over the centuries, this hymn has been used in Easter celebrations, funerals, and regular worship services, reminding congregations that faith in the living Redeemer is the foundation of Christian hope.

The power of this hymn lies in its joyful certainty. It is not a vague hope but a confident proclamation that Christ is alive, active, and victorious. Through this hymn, believers are invited to join in Job’s ancient declaration and to rejoice in the living Redeemer who guarantees their salvation and eternal future.