Renowned Indian missionary Sadhu Sundar Singh heard this story and crafted it into a hymn. He set those powerful words to a traditional local melody, creating one of the earliest expressions of indigenous Indian Christian worship m.facebook.com+4thecripplegate.com+4princessofjesusblog.wordpress.com+4.
Global Spread & Adoption at Billy Graham Crusades
The hymn traveled internationally through returning missionaries and eventually caught the attention of Canadian gospel singer George Beverly Shea, who introduced it at Billy Graham crusades pastorbradabley.wordpress.com+1thecripplegate.com+1. This propelled the song into global recognition within Christian circles.
Theology, Reception, and Meaning
- Emphasis on radical commitment
The hymn originally wasn’t crafted as a statement about free will but as a radical declaration of costly discipleship—it’s a solemn pledge made in the face of persecution time.comgq.com+6thecripplegate.com+6en.wikipedia.org+6. - Decision theology controversy
In some Christian traditions, it’s viewed as “decision theology”—focusing on human resolve rather than divine work, which has led to its omission from certain hymnals thecripplegate.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2youtube.com+2. - Cultural adaptation
Written by an Indian missionary using local tune and language, the hymn represents a heartfelt fusion of sincere devotion and contextual worship .
Lyrics That Encourage & Challenge
Traditional refrain:
I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.
Stanzas echo Nokseng’s last words:
The world behind me, the cross before me;
Though none go with me, still I will follow;
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.
These verses succinctly reflect the cost and commitment embodied in his martyrdom.
Legacy That Still Speaks
- A staple in evangelistic crusades and altar calls—widely used to prompt heartfelt commitment to Christ.
- A reminder to believers: true faith is about bearing your cross and counting the cost.
- A global hymn born from sacrifice, unity, and gospel power that transcends culture.
Why It Still Matters
“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” isn’t just a simple congregational hymn—it’s a declaration echoing the legacy of a martyr whose life (and death) proclaimed that following Christ is a lifelong pledge—no matter the sacrifice.
From a remote Assamese village to worship services around the world, its message still resonates: faith often demands more than comfort—it demands courage.
In summary, this hymn is a powerful reminder of what it means to truly decide to follow Jesus—not as a casual choice, but as a commitment to surrender all, regardless of the cost.