I Must Tell Jesus

I Must Tell Jesus is a deeply comforting hymn that speaks directly to the heart of anyone carrying a heavy burden. Its central message is simple but profound: no matter what trials we face, we do not carry them alone. Jesus Christ is our helper and friend, always ready to listen and bear our sorrows with us. This truth is echoed in several passages of Scripture, especially in Hebrews 2:18, which reminds believers, “For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.” The hymn serves as a strong encouragement to believers to cast all their cares on Christ, knowing that He understands, and He is able to help.

The hymn was written in 1894 by Elisha A. Hoffman, a Presbyterian minister and prolific hymn writer who composed over 2,000 hymns during his lifetime. Much of this creative work occurred during his 33-year ministry at Benton Harbor Presbyterian Church. Hoffman’s pastoral heart and musical gifting came together to produce many memorable gospel songs, but I Must Tell Jesus remains one of his best-known and most enduring works. Its words speak to the real struggles of everyday life and give voice to the believer’s need for divine help. Hoffman's message is one of assurance: Jesus is near, He is listening, and He is able.

Hoffman also composed the tune for this hymn, naming it ORWIGSBURG after his hometown in Pennsylvania. Born into a devout family—his father was also a minister—Hoffman grew up surrounded by worship and spiritual discipline. Daily family devotions and weekly church attendance were the rhythm of his childhood, and although he never received formal musical training, he developed a natural ability for melody and lyric. This musical gift, combined with his spiritual convictions, allowed him to write hymns that are heartfelt, doctrinally sound, and accessible to congregations.

The simplicity and sincerity of I Must Tell Jesus make it suitable for a wide variety of occasions in Christian worship. It can be sung throughout the year but is especially meaningful during times of personal or communal hardship. Whether responding to a sermon on suffering, praying for peace during global turmoil, or providing comfort at a memorial service, the hymn speaks into the lives of worshippers with gentleness and strength. Its tempo should be measured enough to give time for reflection on the words, allowing the weight of the message to settle into the hearts of those who sing or listen.

Several arrangements of this hymn are available for different musical settings. The collection 8 Anthems for About 12 Singers contains a well-balanced choral version suitable for smaller ensembles, while Touched by Jazz offers a sensitive and expressive jazz arrangement for piano, perfect for solo or reflective moments during a service. No matter how it is performed, I Must Tell Jesus continues to offer the Church a voice of comfort and trust, pointing weary hearts to the One who invites all to come to Him and find rest.