He died for Me (I saw One hanging on a tree) - Lyrics

1 I saw One hanging on a tree,
In agony and blood;
He fixed His loving eyes on me,
As near His cross I stood.

Refrain:
O, can it be, upon a tree
The Savior died for me?
My soul is thrilled, my heart is filled,
To think He died for me!

2 Sure, never to my latest breath,
Can I forget that look;
It seemed to charge me with His death,
Though not a word He spoke.

3 My conscience felt and owned the guilt,
And plunged me in despair:
I saw my sins His blood had spilt
And helped to nail Him there.

4 A second look He gave, which said,
“I freely all forgive:
This blood is for your ransom paid,
I die that you may live.”

“He Died for Me (I Saw One Hanging on a Tree)” is a powerful hymn written by John Newton in 1779, reflecting his deep contemplation on the sacrifice of Christ. Newton, who had experienced a dramatic conversion from a life of sin and slave trading to becoming a Christian minister, often wrote hymns that focused on themes of redemption, grace, and the overwhelming love of God. This hymn, like many of his works, emphasizes the personal nature of Christ’s sacrifice and the profound impact it has on the believer.

The hymn opens with the vivid imagery of Christ’s suffering: “I saw One hanging on a tree, in agony and blood.” Newton’s words immediately draw the listener's attention to the cross, where Jesus, the Son of God, took on the penalty for sin. The agonizing image of Christ hanging on the tree is meant to evoke a deep sense of reverence and awe, making the listener contemplate the gravity of what Jesus endured for humanity. This visual of Christ's suffering is not just a historical event but a personal act of love directed towards each believer.

As the hymn progresses, Newton underscores the personal impact of Christ’s death with the repeated refrain, “He died for me, He died for me.” This refrain serves as both a declaration and a reminder that the cross is not only a symbol of general salvation but a deeply personal sacrifice. Christ’s death is not abstract or distant but is a direct expression of God's love for each individual. Newton’s lyrics invite the believer to respond to this love by reflecting on the depths of Christ's sacrifice and the transformative power it has on one’s life.

At its core, “He Died for Me” is a hymn that invites believers into a deep, personal encounter with the crucifixion. Newton, through his own experience of redemption, understood the significance of Christ's sacrifice and its ability to transform lives. This hymn continues to resonate today, reminding Christians of the cost of their salvation and calling them to live in light of Christ's sacrificial love. With its simple yet profound message, the hymn serves as both a meditation on the cross and a joyful affirmation of the personal relationship believers have with their Savior.