151 How Firm a Foundation
“K” in Rippon’s Selection, 1787
A great song of faith, calling to mind such scripture passages as Heb. 13:5: “I will never leave thee nor forsake thee”; Isa. 43:1, 2: “Fear not, for I have redeemed thee: I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee; when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.”
The authorship is uncertain. The hymn appeared in A Selection of Hymns from the Best Authors, 1787, edited by John Rippon, 1751-1836, pastor of the Baptist Church in Carter’s Lane, London, where it was signed “K.” Who “K” was remains uncertain. The best guess seems to be that it refers to Robert Keene, precentor in Dr. Rippon’s church. It is one more example of a writer sending forth an immortal song to bless and strengthen the faith of millions, and then hiding himself completely from public notice.
MUSIC. ADESTE FIDELIS. For comments on this tune see Hymn 80.