Julia H. Johnston (1849-1919) wrote the lyrics to this great hymn along with Daniel B. Towner (1850-1919) arranging the music.
The song was published in a hymn book called Hymns Tried and True. The song comes Romans 5:1-2; 18; 20.
This grace that we sing of here is not just sufficient grace, it is abounding grace as is depicted in 2 Corinthians 9:8 and Ephesians 1:7. Only a few word changes is to be made in this wonderful hymn.
We substituted the title of “Lord” where the song refers to Christ as the “lamb” (A title only given to Christ in reference to Israel’s program). There is no question that anyone who believes solely on the Cross work of Christ can be saved (Titus 2:11).
The original lyrics suggests a person “may” be saved, allowing room for doubt of a person’s salvation. Changing the word to “can” more accurately describes the surety of free salvation available today. Will you receive this grace today (2 Timothy 1:9)?
1.Marvelous grace of our loving Lord, grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt;
Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured, there where the blood of the Lord was spilt;
2. Sinned and despair like the sea waves cold, threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater, yes, grace untold, points to the refuge the mighty Cross.
3. Dark is the stain that we cannot hide, what can avail to wash it away?
Look! There is flowing a crimson tide; Whiter than snow you can be today.
4. Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace, freely bestowed on all who believe;
All who are longing to see His face, will you this moment His grace receive?
Chorus: Grace, grace, God’s grace, grace that will and clean within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace, grace that is greater than all our sin.