Lord Jesus, Once You Spoke to Men

“Lord Jesus, Once You Spoke to Men” is a reflective and prayerful hymn by H. C. A. Gaunt that focuses on the enduring authority and relevance of Christ’s words. The hymn draws a clear connection between Jesus’ teaching during His earthly ministry and His continuing voice through Scripture today. It invites believers to listen attentively and obediently to the living Word of God.

The hymn recalls the power of Christ’s spoken word in the Gospels, where His teaching amazed crowds and transformed lives. Jesus spoke with divine authority, offering truth, comfort, correction, and life. Gaunt emphasizes that this same voice still speaks, not audibly as in the past, but through the written Word empowered by the Holy Spirit. The hymn therefore encourages reverence for Scripture as the living testimony of Christ.

A central theme of the hymn is attentive listening. The believer is called not merely to hear Christ’s words but to receive them with humility and faith. The hymn reflects the biblical posture of sitting at Jesus’ feet, valuing His teaching above all distractions. Listening is presented as an act of discipleship that leads to transformation and obedience.

The hymn also carries a gentle call to application. Christ’s words are not presented as abstract ideas but as truth meant to shape daily life. The singer prays for insight, courage, and faithfulness to live according to what Christ has taught. In this way, the hymn links doctrine with practice, reminding believers that hearing Christ’s word carries responsibility.

“Lord Jesus, Once You Spoke to Men” remains a meaningful hymn for worship centered on Scripture, teaching, and discipleship. Its quiet, contemplative tone makes it especially suitable for services focused on the reading and proclamation of God’s Word, encouraging believers to listen for Christ’s voice and to respond with faith and obedience.