Sweet By and By
A Sermon based on
the Hymn by Sanford F. Bennett
Introduction:
“Sweet By and By” is a cherished hymn that offers comfort, hope, and
assurance to every believer looking beyond this life to the promised
glory of heaven. Written by Sanford F. Bennett in 1868, its gentle
melody and confident lyrics affirm the Christian’s eternal inheritance.
The phrase “by and by” reflects a biblical perspective of time—not
centered on the present trials, but on the future joy that awaits. As 2
Corinthians 4:17 reminds us, “Our light affliction, which is but for a
moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of
glory.” This hymn lifts our hearts above sorrow and disappointment and
anchors our faith in the unchanging promise of eternal life with God.
Stanza 1:
“There’s a land that is fairer than day, and by faith we can see it
afar…”
The first stanza introduces the promise of heaven—a land of beauty
beyond the best days of earth. The Christian does not need physical
sight to believe in this promise, but walks by faith (2 Corinthians
5:7). Jesus speaks of this heavenly land in John 14:2–3, saying, “I go
to prepare a place for you.” The assurance comes not from imagination or
wishful thinking but from the voice of the Savior. The phrase “by faith
we can see it afar” reminds us that even when heaven seems distant, it
is made real through God’s Word and faithful anticipation.
Stanza 2: “We
shall sing on that beautiful shore, the melodious songs of the blest…”
This verse paints a picture of eternal worship in heaven. The “melodious
songs” reflect Revelation 15:3, where the redeemed sing the “song of
Moses and the Lamb.” The phrase “songs of the blest” emphasizes that
heaven will be filled with the joyful praise of saved souls. These are
not mournful dirges, but victorious anthems. The stanza also speaks of
“our spirits shall sorrow no more,” echoing Revelation 21:4—“There shall
be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.” Heaven is not only a place of
joy—it is a place where all pain, separation, and tears are forever
removed.
Stanza 3: “To
our bountiful Father above, we will offer our tribute of praise…”
This stanza shifts from what we receive in heaven to what we offer. We
will give God our “tribute of praise”—eternal gratitude and adoration
for His grace. Ephesians 1:3 says that God has “blessed us with every
spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.” In eternity, we
will fully recognize His mercy and majesty. “For the glorious gift of
His love and the blessings that hallow our days” reminds us that God’s
goodness is not only in the next life, but here and now. Every day He
gives is a taste of what’s to come. Praise now prepares us for praise
then.
Chorus: “In the
sweet by and by, we shall meet on that beautiful shore…”
The chorus affirms the Christian’s confident expectation of reunion and
joy. “We shall meet” is a tender assurance that separation in Christ is
only temporary. 1 Thessalonians 4:17 tells us that the faithful “shall
always be with the Lord.” The “beautiful shore” symbolizes heaven’s
eternal peace and safety. While life brings trials, the “sweet by and
by” reminds us that our journey leads to glory. Singing this chorus is
not mere sentiment—it is a bold declaration that God’s promise is true,
and His people will one day be gathered home.
Sweet By and By
Sermon Outline:
Stanza
1: Heaven Is Promised by Faith
-
A land fairer
than day: John 14:2–3
-
Faith sees the
unseen: 2 Corinthians 5:7
-
God calls us to
trust His promise
Stanza 2:
Heaven Is a Place of Joyful Worship
-
Singing the song
of the redeemed: Revelation 15:3
-
No more sorrow
or pain: Revelation 21:4
-
Heaven is filled
with peace, praise, and glory
Stanza 3:
Heaven Is the Fulfillment of God’s Love
-
We praise the
Giver of every blessing: Ephesians 1:3
-
Heaven magnifies
His grace and goodness
-
Even now, His
love sanctifies our days
Chorus: Heaven
Is Our Hope of Reunion
-
“We shall meet”
promises eternal fellowship: 1 Thessalonians 4:17
-
“That beautiful
shore” symbolizes final rest and reward
-
The “sweet by
and by” is our Christian anchor
Call to Action:
Are you living for this life, or are you preparing for the sweet by and
by? The land that is fairer than day is real—but it is reserved for
those who obey the gospel and walk in faith. If you are not a Christian,
the invitation is still open: believe in Jesus, repent of sin, confess
His name, and be baptized for the remission of your sins (Acts 2:38).
Then live with hope, endure with faith, and sing with assurance. The
promises of this hymn are not empty—they are built on the unshakable
foundation of God’s Word. Prepare now to meet on that beautiful shore.
Scripture
Reference List:
2 Corinthians 4:17 – Present affliction prepares us for eternal glory
2 Corinthians 5:7 – We walk by faith, not by sight
John 14:2–3 – Jesus prepares a place in heaven
Revelation 15:3 – The redeemed sing the song of the Lamb
Revelation 21:4 – No more sorrow, death, or pain
Ephesians 1:3 – God blesses us with every spiritual blessing
1 Thessalonians 4:17 – We shall always be with the Lord
Acts 2:38 – The gospel call to salvation
Song Author
Credit:
“Sweet By and By” was written by
Sanford F. Bennett in
1868. The music was composed by his friend
Joseph P. Webster,
who struggled with depression. Bennett offered the lyrics to comfort
him, and together they created a hymn that has brought peace to
countless hearts for generations.
Song History:
Written in just a matter of minutes, “Sweet By and By” quickly became
one of the most beloved hymns in American gospel music. Its themes of
heaven, reunion, and hope have made it a favorite at funerals and
worship services, reminding the faithful that in Christ, death is not
the end—it is the beginning.
Prepared by
David Hersey of the church of Christ at Granby, MO
Full
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