Lyrics

How can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Saviour’s blood?
He died for me, who caused His pain
He bore my sins and I go free

How can it be?
How can it be?

He left His throne in heav’n above
And freely gave from endless grace
Emptied Himself of all but love
To bleed for Adam’s helpless race

How can it be?
How can it be?

No condemnation now I dread
Jesus and all in Him is mine
Alive in Him, my living head
And clothed in righteousness divine

Now I approach the eternal throne
And all my fears are flown away
I claim the crown, through Christ, my own
On that divine and glorious day

How can it be?
How can it be?

About the Song

New Scottish Hymns

Baptism, Confession, Forgiveness, Grace, Salvation

Acts 12:6-11; Romans 5:8

6467979

Greg de Blieck

Greg de Blieck

Devotional

You might recognise the lyrics of this great and popular hymn, ‘And Can it Be’ by Charles Wesley. At midnight I gave myself to Christ, assured that I was safe, whether sleeping or waking. I had the continual experience of His power to overcome all temptation, and I confessed with joy and surprise that He was able to do exceedingly abundantly for me above what I can ask or think. It is rumoured that in 1738 despite being already ordained as a priest in the Church of England for three years, he wrote this hymn after reading Martin Luther’s commentary on Galatians. He experienced a revelation of his freedom through Christ.  While trying not to wander too far from the original text of this great hymn, we’ve selected some key verses, and set it to a more simple, reflective tune, rather than the famous and often tricky ‘Sagnia’. Reflect on the truths of the gospel laid out in this hymn, and pray that God’s spirit would cause your heart to be moved to awe, wonder and praise.

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Sheet music
Song: How Can It Be

Original key

Main

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Alternate key

Main

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All resources that we have produced for this song:
  • MP3 recording
  • MP3 instrumental
  • MP4 lyric video
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  • Piano music
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Song Resources

Lyric Video Download £2.00
Lyric video file - MP4. Designed for use in streamed worship services. Please refer to https://www.newscottishhymns.com/streaming for more information.
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Powerpoint slides - file to import into e.g. ProPresenter or Powerpoint