Lift Him Up is a popular Christian hymn written by Charles A. Tindley (1851–1933), an African American pastor, songwriter, and civil rights leader. Tindley, often referred to as one of the “fathers of gospel music,” is known for his powerful hymns that combine deep theology with emotional intensity, and Lift Him Up is one of his most famous compositions.
Charles Tindley wrote “Lift Him Up” in 1905. It is part of his larger body of work that blends biblical truth with themes of hope, deliverance, and the exaltation of Jesus Christ. Tindley, who was born to enslaved parents, overcame significant adversity in his own life, including illiteracy, and became a prominent pastor and leader in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church.
Tindley’s hymns often reflect his deep faith in the power of the gospel to change lives and offer hope to those who are suffering. “Lift Him Up” is no exception, drawing on the central Christian theme of lifting up Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world.
Lift Him Up – Lyrics
How to reach the masses, *men of ev’ry birth,
For an answer Jesus gave the key:
“And I, if I be lifted up from the earth,
Will draw all men unto Me.”
Refrain:
Lift Him up, (Lift the precious Savior up),
Lift Him up, (Lift the precious Savior up),
Still He speaks from eternity:
“And I, if I be lifted up from the earth,
Will draw all men unto Me.”
Oh! the world is hungry for the Living Bread,
Lift the Savior up for them to see;
Trust Him, and do not doubt the words that He said,
“I’ll draw all men unto Me.” [Refrain]
Don’t exalt the preacher, don’t exalt the pew,
Preach the Gospel simple, full and free;
Prove Him and you will find that promise is true,
“I’ll draw all men unto Me.” [Refrain]
Lift Him up by living as a Christian ought,
Let the world in you the Savior see;
Then men will gladly follow Him who once taught,
“I’ll draw all men unto Me.” [Refrain]
* Saints can be substituted for men throughout this text.
