Hymn Story: Before the Throne of God Above

"Before the Throne of God Above" was written in 1863 by Charitie Lees Bancroft, the daughter of an Irish clergyman. Inspired by Hebrews 4:14–16 and Romans 8, her hymn speaks powerfully of Christ’s intercession for believers.

Charles Spurgeon valued the text so highly that he included it in his 1866 hymnal, pairing it with the tune used for “Sweet Hour of Prayer.”

Although written in the 19th century, the hymn gained renewed popularity in 1997 when Vikki Cook of Sovereign Grace Music set it to a new melody.

This modern arrangement helped bring the hymn to a new generation, where it continues to be a favorite for its rich theology and comforting message.

Before the Throne of God Above

by Charite L. Bancroft, 1841-1923

Before the throne of God above,

I have a strong and perfect plea,

a great High Priest whose name is Love,

who ever lives and pleads for me.

My name is graven on his hands,

my name is written on his heart.

I know that while in heav'n he stands,

no tongue can bid me thence depart.

When Satan tempts me to despair

and tells me of the guilt within,

upward I look and see him there,

who made an end to all my sin.

Because the sinless Savior died,

my sinful soul is counted free;

for God, the just, is satisfied

to look on him and pardon me.

Behold him there, the risen Lamb,

my perfect, spotless righteousness,

the great unchangeable I AM,

the King of glory and of grace!

One with himself I cannot die.

My soul is purchased by his blood!

My life is hid with Christ on high,

with Christ, my Savior and my God.