What Did He Do?

“What Did He Do?” is a gospel hymn written by James M. Gray in 1903, beautifully expressing the wonder and gratitude of the believer toward the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. James M. Gray, who later served as president of the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, was both a respected Bible scholar and a gifted hymn writer. His deep understanding of Scripture and his heart for evangelism are reflected in this hymn’s thoughtful yet personal message.

The hymn opens with a profound and simple question that captures the attention of both believer and unbeliever alike: “O listen to our wondrous story, counted once among the lost.” This opening line immediately establishes the theme of redemption, presenting humanity’s fallen condition and the astonishing grace of God in sending His Son to save sinners. Each stanza unfolds the gospel message in plain, heartfelt language, leading to the climactic refrain, “He saved me from that awful loss: what did He do? He died for you.”

Gray’s lyrics reflect his strong theological grounding in substitutionary atonement, the biblical truth that Christ took the place of sinners on the cross, bearing the penalty that humanity deserved. This message is central to Christian faith, and Gray communicates it with simplicity and directness. The question “What did He do?” functions as both a prompt for reflection and a call to faith. The answer is clear and unchanging: “He died for you.” That personal application is what makes the hymn so powerful.

The hymn’s structure alternates between narrative and invitation. It tells the story of Jesus’ redemptive act, then turns directly to the listener, urging them to recognize and respond to the Savior’s love. This pattern mirrors the evangelistic preaching style of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, which sought to awaken conviction and lead to a personal decision for Christ.

Musically, “What Did He Do?” is set to a melody composed by Daniel B. Towner, another prominent figure in gospel hymnody. Towner’s tune supports Gray’s message with a gentle yet stirring flow, allowing the words to be easily understood and deeply felt. Together, the text and melody communicate both the tenderness and the triumph of the gospel story.

The hymn was widely used in revival meetings, mission services, and evangelistic campaigns. Its question-and-answer format made it especially effective for inviting listeners to think personally about their need for salvation. Even today, it continues to serve as a reminder of the simplicity of the gospel message: salvation is not earned but received through faith in the finished work of Christ.

Spiritually, “What Did He Do?” brings believers to a place of humility and gratitude. It reminds them that the cross was not an abstract event but a deeply personal act of love. The hymn reinforces the truth that Jesus did not merely die for humanity in general but for each individual personally. It encourages both worship and witness, prompting those who have been saved to share the same message with others.

James M. Gray’s combination of scholarly precision and heartfelt devotion is what gives this hymn lasting power. Its timeless question continues to challenge hearts: “What did He do?” The answer, “He died for you,” remains the most beautiful truth ever proclaimed. The hymn stands as a simple, sincere testimony of the gospel, pointing every listener to the redeeming love of Christ and the assurance of eternal life through Him.