Nothing But The Blood Of Jesus

Jonathan Anderson • July 13, 2025

There’s something raw and powerful about “Nothing But the Blood of Jesus.” From the very first line, it doesn’t hesitate — it names the truth plainly: our hope, our cleansing, our peace, all come through the blood of Christ. It’s a hymn that doesn’t dress things up; it gets right to the heart of the gospel.

The Story Behind the Hymn

The hymn was written in 1876 by Robert Lowry, a Baptist preacher and songwriter known for many well-loved hymns. At the time, revival meetings were common across the U.S., and this song fit right into the spirit of the movement — simple, strong, and centered entirely on Jesus.


Lowry’s words were direct, almost like a call and response. Each line ends with the same bold answer: “Nothing but the blood of Jesus.” It became a favorite in churches and camp meetings, especially in moments of invitation or reflection. The melody is easy to sing, but its meaning runs deep.


What Makes It Powerful

This hymn doesn’t tiptoe around the cross — it leads you straight to it. In a time when people often avoid words like “blood” in worship, this hymn reminds us that the blood of Christ isn’t something to avoid — it’s everything. It’s where forgiveness begins, and where guilt ends.


One of the most direct scriptures that connects to the hymn is Hebrews 9:22 (NIV):


Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.

That truth is woven through every verse. The song doesn’t focus on emotions or effort — it points again and again to Jesus as the one and only answer. Not what we’ve done, not what we can offer — just Him.


My Violin Cover

When I arranged this hymn for violin, I wanted to keep the melody firm but not heavy. It’s not mournful — it’s confident. The rhythm has a bit of march to it, a steady reminder that this truth is unchanging. There’s joy in knowing where our forgiveness comes from.


At Violin Hymns, I try to let the melody reflect the message, and this one called for clarity and focus. I didn’t add anything flashy — just stayed close to the roots of what makes this hymn so enduring.



Listen and Reflect

The video is below. As you listen, think about the words — even if they’re not being sung, they’re still true. Whatever burdens you carry, whatever sins feel too heavy — they are no match for the blood of Jesus. That’s the good news, and this hymn doesn’t let us forget it: What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Lyrics


What can wash away my sin?

Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

What can make me whole again?

Nothing but the blood of Jesus.


Oh! precious is the flow

That makes me white as snow;

No other fount I know,

Nothing but the blood of Jesus.


This is all my hope and peace—

Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

This is all my righteousness—

Nothing but the blood of Jesus.


Glory! glory! this I sing—

Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

All my praise for this I bring—

Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

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