I Have Decided to Follow Jesus Chords - The Story and Meaning Behind the Beloved Hymn

The Story Behind the Hymn "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus"

The hymn "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" has an inspiring backstory. It originated in the Indian state of Assam, where there was intense persecution of Christians during the 19th century. According to folklore, a village chief named Nokseng and his family converted to Christianity. This angered the ruler of the region, who sent soldiers to threaten the villagers to renounce their new faith or face death.

The Martyrdom that Inspired the Hymn

As soldiers approached Nokseng's home, he went out to meet them with his wife and children. They refused to recant their Christian beliefs, even after the ruler's threats. Soldiers prepared to execute Nokseng's family before his eyes. First they killed his wife, and then his children. After each murder, they asked Nokseng if he would now deny Christ. His steadfast response after each killing was, "I have decided to follow Jesus."

Ultimately, Nokseng too was martyred for his faith. But his testimony led many of the persecutors to convert to Christianity. The story spread through the region, leading to more conversions in Assam. "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" became a rallying cry - expressed through this hymn that honors Nokseng's sacrifice.

Lyrics Capturing Conviction and Sacrifice

The basic lyrics to "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" relate this tale of devoted conviction:

I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.

Though none go with me, I still will follow;
Though none go with me, I still will follow;
Though none go with me, I still will follow;
No turning back, no turning back.

The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
No turning back, no turning back.

The simple but powerful lyrics capture the spirit of Nokseng's sacrifice for his faith. The melody reinforces the commitment expressed.

Chord Structure of This Timeless Hymn

The chords used in "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" are relatively simple, allowing the lyrics and story to resonate most with singers and listeners alike:

Chords for the First Verse

The opening verse uses these four chords, repeating each line:

G D Em C

So the full sequence for the first verse is:

G D Em C x4

Chords for the Remaining Verses

The second and third verses, built around repetition of lyrics with the "No turning back" refrain, have a slightly different chord progression:

G D G D
G C G C
G D Em C x2

This creates some musical dynamics while retaining a simple structure underscoring the message. Strumming an upbeat rhythmic pattern keeps the song moving briskly along.

Basic Chords for Congregational Singing

The basic chords lend themselves well to congregational singing or accompaniment on guitar, piano, organ, or other instruments. Music directors often encourage enthusiastic singing on this hymn. The martial, marching tempo invites spirited communal participation.

Since "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" originated as a folk song in remote rural India, it has always featured audience involvement. The basic chords, repetitive lyrics, and rousing tempo all facilitate this, creating a powerful shared experience communicating Christian faith.

Adaptations Enrich Impact

Part of the continuing popularity of "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" stems from adaptations by musical artists over the years. Retaining the core message, these versions help connect the historical story with contemporary audiences.

Expanded Lyrics Connect Meaning

Some renditions add lyrics elaborating on the theme of sacrifice and commitment to Christian discipleship. For example, this take on the original folk story adds a verse with imagery relevant to modern listeners:

The path is rough and the rain descends;
The wind is cold and bitter, too.
But the presence of my Savior, Jesus,
Will guide me safely through.

Creative Arrangements for New Styles

To capture listeners more used to popular musical genres, some versions feature creative arrangements. One electronica-dance adaptation even hit the international charts. Another, done in an a capella style, uses layered harmonies and vocal percussion conveying an inspirational mood.

Yet the lyrics remain largely unchanged between covers. This demonstrates the inherent strength of the original hymn's message and imagery.

Global Outreach Through Music

In recent years, translations of "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" have spread its reach. Versions now exist in languages like Japanese, Swahili, Mandarin, and Arabic among others. The central story, lyrics, and chords retain cross-cultural resonance.

A song born in remote rural India lives on globally, its chord progressions and theme of sacrifice still striking a chord everywhere. This gives the hymn power and relevance over a century and a half after its inception.

An Enduring Anthem

For well over 100 years, "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" has featured in worship services, religious gatherings, and even secular events. The hymn and its elemental chords provide a simple yet enduring anthem celebrating Christian devotion.

Many faithful still tell the story of the assassinated Nokseng family behind the song when introducing it. The lyrics remain as relevant today as in the 19th century in capturing the essence of spiritual commitment. That timeless resonance seems likely to inspire more versions by new artists aiming to connect with future generations.

So do not be surprised if a hot new band comes out with a hit adaptation of "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" - complete with a hip hop beat, rap verses elaborating on remaining steadfast in faith, and maybe a dance remix version on the B-side. The lyrics and chords may change, but the core message will stay the same. Proving once again the enduring appeal of a song rooted in sacrifice for religious belief.

FAQs

What is the story behind the hymn "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus"?

The hymn originated from a tale of intense persecution of Christians in 19th century Assam, India. As the story goes, a village chief named Nokseng and his family decided to convert to Christianity, angering a local ruler who threatened them with death if they did not renounce their faith. Nokseng refused to turn back even as his family was martyred before his eyes, giving rise to the lyrics "I have decided to follow Jesus."

What are the basic chords for "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus"?

The hymn uses a simple chord progression of G-D-Em-C. The chords then change slightly for the chorus to G-D-G-D, G-C-G-C, G-D-Em-C in a repetitive structure that is easy for congregational singing.

How has the hymn been adapted over the years?

The anthem has inspired many new renditions and translations over the past century. Some versions feature added lyrics, creative musical arrangements tailored for different genres, or new translations reaching wider global audiences. But the essence of sacrifice and devotion from the original folk song remains.

Why does "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus" remain so popular and impactful?

The lyrics and chord progressions have a timeless quality conveying Christian commitment and sacrifice. The song also lends itself well to audience participation and congregational singing. And it continues to inspire new interpretations connecting with modern listeners, ensuring its message reaches new generations.