The Story Behind “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus”

The hymn "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" carries a deeply moving and powerful story—one rooted in faith, persecution, and unwavering devotion.

The story dates back to the mid-19th century, during a time of intense missionary activity in India and increasing persecution of new Christian converts. In the northeast region of Assam, India, a man from a local tribe came to faith in Christ through the efforts of Welsh missionaries.

When tribal leaders learned of his conversion, they were enraged. The man was arrested and brought before the village elders, along with his wife and children. He was commanded to renounce his faith in Jesus, or face execution.

With courage, he responded:

“I have decided to follow Jesus.”

In response, his children were executed before his eyes. Again, he was urged to deny Christ.

He answered:

“Though no one joins me, still I will follow.”

His wife was then killed. Yet, standing firm, the man declared one final time:

“The cross before me, the world behind me. No turning back.”

He was executed shortly after.

Though his life was taken, his bold and sacrificial witness reportedly led to the conversion of the village chief and many others in the community. His final words were remembered and later formed the basis of the hymn.

The lyrics were arranged into a song by Sadhu Sundar Singh, an Indian Christian evangelist, and set to a traditional Indian folk melody. It was later popularized in the West through the evangelistic crusades of Billy Graham, and has since become a global anthem of Christian commitment.

This is not just a song—it is a testimony of radical faith, a reminder of the cost of discipleship, and a declaration of unwavering loyalty to Christ, even in the face of death.

“But Jesus said…‘No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.’” — Luke 9:62 (AMP)