The Author
Scripture Theme: 1 John 4:8–12; Ephesians 3:17–19 (AKJV 1611)
Written1747
Charles Wesley (1707–1788) was an English Anglican priest, evangelist, and one of the founders of the Methodist Revival. Educated at Christ Church, Oxford, he worked closely with his brother, John Wesley, in preaching the Gospel throughout Britain. Charles wrote over 6,000 hymns, making him one of the most prolific hymn writers in Christian history. His hymns continue to enrich the worship of the Anglican, Methodist, and many other Christian Churches.
The Tune
The hymn has been sung to several melodies, but today it is most commonly paired with HYFRYDOL, composed by the Welsh musician Rowland Hugh Prichard (1811–1887). Written in 1830, HYFRYDOL (Welsh for “cheerful” or “pleasant”) is one of the finest Welsh hymn tunes. Its warm, flowing melody perfectly complements Wesley’s prayer for the transforming love of God. Another well-known setting is BLAENWERN, composed by William Penfro Rowlands (1860–1937).
Background
Charles Wesley wrote Love Divine, All Loves Excelling in 1747, and it was first published in London in Hymns for Those that Seek, and Those that Have, Redemption in the Blood of Christ. The opening words were influenced by John Dryden’s famous line, “Fairest Isle, All Isles Excelling,” from the opera King Arthur, set to music by Henry Purcell. Wesley transformed the poetic expression into a profound Christian hymn celebrating God’s perfect love, redeeming grace, and the believer’s growth in holiness.
Scriptural Foundation
The hymn is chiefly inspired by:
“God is love.”
1 John 4:8 (AKJV 1611)
Other passages reflected throughout the hymn include:
- 1 John 4:9–12 – God’s love revealed in Christ.
- Ephesians 3:17–19 – Being filled with the fulness of God.
- 2 Corinthians 3:18 – Being changed into Christ’s likeness.
- Philippians 1:6 – God’s work brought to perfection.
The closing verse expresses the Christian hope of complete renewal and eternal praise before God.
Significance of the Hymn
Love Divine, All Loves Excelling is one of the greatest hymns ever written on the love and grace of God. Combining rich biblical teaching with beautiful poetry, it is a prayer for the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, leading believers towards holiness and eternal fellowship with God. Whether sung to HYFRYDOL or BLAENWERN, it has become a treasured hymn in Anglican, Methodist, and many other Christian traditions. Its enduring popularity has led to its inclusion in countless hymnals and its use at major national and royal occasions, including royal weddings, where its message of divine love continues to inspire worshippers throughout the world.