This edition was prepared by Andrew Sims — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
I love thee, Lord, but not because
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
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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 · Andrew Sims
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I love thee, Lord, but not because by Henry J. Gauntlett — Lyrics
I love thee, Lord, but not because
I hope for heaven thereby,
nor yet for fear that loving not
I might for ever die;
but for that thou didst all the world
upon the cross embrace;
for us didst bear the nails and spear,
and manifold disgrace,
and griefs and torments numberless,
and sweat of agony;
e’en death itself; and all for one
who was thine enemy.
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About I love thee, Lord, but not because
These words express a profound and selfless devotion to God, rejecting earthly rewards or the fear of damnation as motivations for love. The singer declares love for God not for the promise of heaven or the threat of hell, but purely out of gratitude for Christ's sacrifice on the cross. The text poetically recounts the suffering endured for humanity's sake, emphasizing the immense grace shown even to enemies. This setting of those deeply personal and heartfelt lyrics for SATB choir in English invites a powerful and contemplative interpretation, focusing on the intrinsic beauty of divine love and sacrifice. It is a moving hymn of pure adoration.
