Where He Leads, I’ll Follow

Songbook Hymn Sermons

Where He Leads, I’ll Follow
A Sermon based on the hymn by William A. Ogden

Introduction
“Where He Leads, I’ll Follow” is a hymn that captures the spirit of devoted discipleship. Written by William A. Ogden, the song draws heavily from the words of Jesus in Luke 9:23, “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” It expresses our commitment to walk in the steps of Christ—not just in word, but in deed. The path Jesus leads us on is not always easy, but it is always right, true, and blessed.

This hymn reminds us of the cost and the beauty of discipleship. The first stanza praises the compassionate voice of Jesus, calling us to walk in love and truth. The second shows His example of humble service, reminding us that He came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45). The third encourages us to remain steadfast in following Christ’s teaching, even when the world pulls us in other directions. And the chorus boldly declares, “Where He leads I’ll follow, follow all the way,” echoing the resolve of Peter in John 6:68: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Every Christian must ask: Am I truly following Jesus in all things?

Stanza 1 – Sweet Are the Promises
“Sweet are the promises, kind is the word,
Dearer far than any message man ever heard;
Pure was the mind of Christ, sinless I see;
He the great example is, and pattern for me.”

The promises of Christ are not only sweet, but trustworthy (2 Peter 1:4). His words bring life, peace, and hope (John 6:63). The “pure mind” of Christ refers to His holiness (Hebrews 4:15). His life was untainted by sin, making Him the perfect example for our walk (1 Peter 2:21). As Christians, we are called to renew our minds to match His (Philippians 2:5).

Stanza 2 – Sweet Is the Tender Love Jesus Hath Shown
“Sweet is the tender love Jesus hath shown,
Sweeter far than any love that mortals have known;
Kind to the erring one, faithful is He;
He the great example is, and pattern for me.”

Jesus’ love is unmatched—sacrificial, unconditional, and eternal. Romans 5:8 says, “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” His gentleness with sinners like the woman caught in adultery (John 8:11) shows how He dealt tenderly, yet truthfully, with those in error. His faithfulness never wavers (2 Timothy 2:13). That kind of love must be mirrored in our treatment of others (John 13:34).

Stanza 3 – List to His Loving Words, Come Unto Me
“List to His loving words, ‘Come unto Me,’
Weary, heavy laden, there is sweet rest for thee;
Trust in His promises, faithful and sure;
Lean upon the Savior, and thy soul is secure.”

Jesus invites the weary (Matthew 11:28–30). His words bring rest—not necessarily from life’s trials, but rest for the soul. Trusting in His promises means leaning into His strength, not our own (Proverbs 3:5–6). Security is found in Christ alone (Hebrews 6:19), for He never breaks His word (Titus 1:2).

Chorus – Where He Leads I’ll Follow
“Where He leads I’ll follow,
Follow all the way;
Where He leads I’ll follow,
Follow Jesus every day.”

This chorus is the anthem of obedience. It means total surrender to Christ’s will, wherever that leads. Whether in comfort or hardship, gain or loss, the Christian is called to “walk in His steps” (1 Peter 2:21). This resolve is foundational to Christian living—following daily, not selectively, with faith and loyalty.

Where He Leads, I’ll Follow Sermon Outline:

Introduction

• Theme: Faithful discipleship

• Luke 9:23 – Take up your cross and follow Him

Stanza 1 – Christ as Our Sinless Example

• 2 Peter 1:4 – Precious promises

• John 6:63 – His words bring life

• Hebrews 4:15 – Christ without sin

• Philippians 2:5 – Have the mind of Christ

Stanza 2 – The Tender Love of Christ

• Romans 5:8 – Christ died for us

• John 8:11 – Kind to the erring one

• 2 Timothy 2:13 – Christ is always faithful

• John 13:34 – Love one another as Christ loved

Stanza 3 – His Invitation to Rest

• Matthew 11:28–30 – “Come unto Me”

• Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trust in the Lord

• Hebrews 6:19 – Hope is an anchor

• Titus 1:2 – God cannot lie

Chorus – Total Obedience and Daily Following

• 1 Peter 2:21 – Follow His steps

• John 6:68 – He has the words of eternal life

• Galatians 2:20 – Live by faith in the Son of God

Call to Action
Have you made the decision to follow Jesus every day, in every way? His path leads to life, but it requires full surrender. Don’t just sing “Where He leads I’ll follow”—live it. Take up your cross, deny self, and walk in His steps starting today. The reward is eternal.

Scripture Reference List:

• Luke 9:23 – Deny self, take up cross, follow Jesus

• 2 Peter 1:4 – Precious promises of God

• John 6:63 – His words are spirit and life

• Hebrews 4:15 – Jesus was tempted yet sinless

• Philippians 2:5 – Have Christ’s mindset

• Romans 5:8 – Christ’s love shown in His death

• John 8:11 – Jesus’ mercy to sinners

• 2 Timothy 2:13 – His faithfulness endures

• John 13:34 – Love one another as He loved us

• Matthew 11:28–30 – Come to Jesus for rest

• Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trust in the Lord

• Hebrews 6:19 – Hope as anchor of the soul

• Titus 1:2 – God does not lie

• 1 Peter 2:21 – Follow in Christ’s steps

• John 6:68 – Jesus has the words of life

• Galatians 2:20 – Crucified with Christ, now living by faith

Song History
“Where He Leads, I’ll Follow” was written by William A. Ogden, a 19th-century American composer known for his contributions to sacred music. This hymn has remained a beloved staple in churches of Christ, especially during invitation time. It urges listeners to walk as Christ walked and to commit to full obedience.

Prepared by David Hersey of the church of Christ at Granby, MO

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