Providing literary analysis and historical background, Leland Ryken invites us to experience great hymns as powerful works of devotional poetrysavoring elements that we easily miss when singing them.

This deluxe, spiral-bound collection bridges the stylistic gap between modern-day worship songs and the hymns of Christian heritage. A select advisory board was assembled to pinpoint 56 hymns both for their musical quality, and for the messages they bring to today's worshippers. Their selections include: Amazing Grace * Be Still, My Soul * Blessed Assurance * Crown Him with Many Crowns * How Firm a Foundation * Joy to the World * Revive Us Again * To God Be the Glory * and more.