This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Faithful Soldier
Staff Notation • Sacred
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
SATB · Barry Johnston
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Faithful Soldier by Anonymous — Lyrics
Smith and Jones, Hymns Original and Selected, 1812
1. O when shall I see Jesus,
And reign with him above;
And from that flowing fountain
Drink everlasting love?
When shall I be delivered
From this vain world of sin,
And with my blessed Jesus,
Drink endless pleasures in?
2. But now I am a soldier,
My Captain's gone before,
He's given me my orders,
And bid me not give o'er;
If I continue faithful,
A righteous crown he'll give,
And all his valiant soldiers
Eternal life shall have.
3. Through grace I am determined
To conquer, though I die,
And then away to Jesus,
On wings of love, I'll fly.
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About Faithful Soldier
This SATB setting of Faithful Soldier presents a stirring English sacred text. The music opens with a clear, declamatory statement, setting the scene for the hymn's martial imagery. The text speaks of Christian life as a spiritual battle, with Jesus as the "Captain" leading his "soldiers" towards victory over sin and a heavenly reward. The composer has shaped the music to reflect this journey, from the yearning for salvation to the determined resolve to remain faithful even in the face of death. The final stanza offers a powerful farewell to worldly concerns and an exhortation to friends to remain steadfast in their faith. The piece builds towards a triumphant affirmation of eternal life in glory.
