33 Lesser Known Traditional Hymns About Following Jesus (2025)

In the journey of faith, traditional hymns play a vital role in guiding and inspiring believers to follow Jesus Christ with unwavering devotion. These timeless hymns, rooted in rich theological truths and heartfelt expressions of commitment, offer a profound reflection on what it means to walk in the footsteps of our Savior. Whether you’re seeking encouragement for your spiritual walk, or looking for songs that reinforce your dedication to Christ, this collection of traditional hymns about following Jesus will uplift and deepen your faith. Also see our list of Hymns About Jesus.

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33 Traditional Hymns About Following Jesus

1. “I Am a Soldier of the Cross”

What makes it special: This hymn reflects the call to follow Jesus as a soldier in His army, emphasizing the spiritual warfare and commitment required in discipleship.

Also see our list of Old Christians Hymns.

2. “Come, Follow Me”

What makes it special: A hymn inviting believers to follow Jesus with dedication and perseverance. It underscores the personal call to discipleship and the journey of faith.

3. “Footsteps of Jesus”

What makes it special: This hymn speaks to the desire to follow in the steps of Jesus, highlighting the guidance and example He provides for believers.

Also see Hymns for Palm Sunday.

4. “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus”

What makes it special: A hymn of firm resolution to follow Jesus, regardless of the challenges. Its simplicity and repetitive refrain make it a powerful declaration of faith.

5. “O Jesus, I Have Promised”

What makes it special: This hymn reflects on the promises made to Jesus to follow Him faithfully. It emphasizes commitment and the desire to stay true to Christ’s teachings.

6. “Where He Leads Me”

What makes it special: A hymn that expresses willingness to follow Jesus wherever He leads, trusting in His guidance and leadership through life’s journey.

See our List of Hymns of Praise for more.

7. “The Savior Calls”

What makes it special: This hymn highlights Jesus’ call to His followers, urging them to respond with obedience and faithfulness.

8. “I Will Follow Thee, My Savior”

What makes it special: A personal commitment to follow Jesus in all circumstances, reflecting a deep sense of devotion and trust.

9. “Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken”

What makes it special: This hymn speaks to the willingness to bear the cross and follow Jesus despite personal sacrifice and trials.

10. “Take Up Thy Cross”

What makes it special: Emphasizes the call to take up one’s cross and follow Jesus, reflecting the cost and commitment of true discipleship.

11. “O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee”

What makes it special: A prayerful hymn asking for guidance to walk closely with Jesus, reflecting a desire for companionship and direction in the Christian life.

12. “Follow On”

What makes it special: This hymn encourages believers to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, focusing on His guidance and the blessings of walking in His ways.

13. “Jesus Calls Us O’er the Tumult”

What makes it special: A hymn that acknowledges the distractions and challenges of life but calls believers to respond to Jesus’ call amid the tumult.

14. “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”

What makes it special: This hymn is a plea for guidance and support from Jesus, comparing the journey of faith to a pilgrimage through a barren land.

Also Church Hymns for Funerals.

15. “We Are Climbing Jacob’s Ladder”

What makes it special: Reflects the journey of following Jesus as a spiritual ascent, likening it to climbing Jacob’s ladder and growing closer to God.

16. “To Follow Thee”

What makes it special: A hymn focusing on the commitment to follow Jesus, emphasizing the personal dedication and sacrifices involved.

17. “He Leadeth Me: O Blessed Thought”

What makes it special: This hymn celebrates the comfort and assurance of being led by Jesus, reflecting on His guidance in both peaceful and challenging times.

18. “More About Jesus”

What makes it special: This hymn expresses a desire for deeper knowledge and understanding of Jesus, reflecting the pursuit of spiritual growth and intimacy with Christ.

19. “I Want to Be a Christian”

What makes it special: A hymn that expresses a deep yearning to live as a true follower of Jesus, asking for transformation and growth in faith.

20. “Follow, Follow”

What makes it special: This hymn focuses on the joy and commitment of following Jesus, celebrating the guidance and support He provides.

Also see Hymns for Reformation Sunday.

21. “Jesus Is Calling the Weary to Rest”

What makes it special: A hymn that speaks to Jesus’ call to those burdened and weary, inviting them to follow Him for rest and renewal.

22. “I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go”

What makes it special: Expresses a willingness to follow Jesus wherever He leads, reflecting a heart of obedience and service.

23. “O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee”

What makes it special: A prayerful request to walk closely with Jesus, emphasizing the desire for guidance and companionship in the journey of faith.

The Importance of Traditional Hymns in Worship

Traditional hymns hold a special place in the hearts of many worshippers. Their enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, these hymns provide a tangible link to the rich heritage of the Christian faith. By singing the same hymns that generations before us sang, we enter into a sense of unity with believers from different eras and cultures. This connection to the past helps us to grasp the timeless truths of the Gospel and reinforces our identity as part of the broader Christian community.

Furthermore, traditional hymns have a unique ability to convey deep theological concepts in a way that resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. Through their carefully crafted lyrics and memorable melodies, these hymns engage both the mind and the heart, leading worshippers into a profound encounter with God. They serve as a vehicle for expressing our praise, thanksgiving, and adoration, helping us to connect with God on a deeper level.

Moreover, traditional hymns contribute to the formation of our faith. Their consistent presence in worship services and personal devotional practices nurtures our spiritual growth by instilling biblical truths, encouraging meditation on Scripture, and fostering a robust prayer life. The theological richness embedded in these hymns helps us to internalize essential aspects of our faith and integrate them into our daily lives.

The Historical Significance of Hymns in Christian Tradition

Hymnody has played a significant role throughout the history of Christianity. From the early Church to the present day, hymns have provided a means of proclaiming and preserving the Gospel message. In the early centuries, hymns were a way to reinforce and transmit biblical teachings and counter false doctrines. Many ancient hymns emphasized the divinity of Christ and the mystery of the Incarnation, addressing theological controversies of the time.

During the Reformation, hymns became a powerful tool for teaching and mobilizing the laity. Martin Luther, known as the “Father of Hymnody,” recognized the potential of hymns to engage congregations in worship and instruction. He translated and composed numerous hymns in the vernacular language, making them accessible to all and empowering believers to participate actively in worship.

Throughout Church history, hymns have also played a role in social movements, advocating for justice, equality, and societal transformation. These hymns provided a platform for expressing the longing for freedom, the fight against oppression, and the hope for a better world. Their lyrics served as a rallying cry for communities of faith, inspiring action and solidarity among believers.