Experience the profound and restorative spirit of “Before the Throne of God Above” in this peaceful instrumental arrangement. This rendition is crafted to provide a worshipful atmosphere for reflection, centering on the unshakeable truth that we have a “strong and perfect plea” in the presence of the Father.
The Scriptural Foundation
This powerful modern hymn is deeply rooted in the priestly imagery of the New Testament, specifically Hebrews 4:14-16:
“Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.”
The lyrics provide a spiritual anchor for the believer, reminding us that because of the “sinless Savior,” our names are graven on His hands, and no power—neither our own guilt nor the accusations of the enemy—can separate us from His love.
The Story Behind the Hymn
While many recognize this as a contemporary worship staple, the text was originally written in 1863 by Charitie Lees Bancroft, the daughter of an Irish minister. Bancroft wrote it during a time of personal reflection on the “unchangeable I AM.”
Over a century later, in 1997, Vikki Cook (Sovereign Grace Worship) composed the modern melody that has since carried these profound words into churches worldwide. It has become a definitive anthem of “God the Just” being satisfied through the work of Christ, offering a “perfect spotless righteousness” to all who look upward to the risen Lamb.
Hymn Lyrics (Part I)
1
Before the throne of God above,
I have a strong and perfect plea:
A great High Priest whose Name is Love,
Who ever lives and pleads for me.
My name is graven on His hands,
My name is written on His heart;
I know that while in heav’n He stands,
No tongue can bid me thence depart.
2
When Satan tempts me to despair,
And tells me of the guilt within,
Upward I look and see Him there,
Who made an end of all my sin.
Because the sinless Savior died,
My sinful soul is counted free;
For God the Just is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me.
Hymn Lyrics (Part II)
3
Behold Him there, the risen Lamb,
My perfect, spotless Righteousness,
The great unchangeable I AM,
The King of glory and of grace!
One with Himself, I cannot die;
My soul is purchased by His blood;
My life is hid with Christ on high,
With Christ, my Savior and my God.
Refrain (Optional)
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Praise the One, Risen Lamb of God!
Ways to Use This Instrumental
Overcoming Despair: Focus on Verse 2 when facing feelings of guilt or spiritual attack, letting the melody reinforce your “perfect plea.”
Intercessory Prayer: Play this while praying for others, remembering that Christ is even now pleading for them “before the throne.”
Communion Reflection: Use the themes of the “purchased soul” and “spotless righteousness” to prepare your heart for the Lord’s Supper.
Deepen Your Connection
If this melody strengthened your faith, explore our collection of modern and traditional hymns and scriptural deep-dives designed to foster a heart of assurance and unshakeable peace.
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Related Reflections
- Touch Of Heaven
- Open Up The Heavens
- O Come To The Altar
- There Is A Cloud
- Yes I Will
- King Of My Heart
- Great God
- This I Believe / The Creed
- Yours / Glory and Praise
- Prince Of Heaven