GHS 162 : Almost Persuaded Lyrics
GHS 162, “Almost Persuaded,” is one of the most sobering evangelism hymns ever written. Composed by Philip Bliss after hearing a sermon by Revivalist D.L. Moody on the text from Acts 26:28, where Agrippa says to Paul “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian,” the hymn takes that single word and holds it up as a tragedy. The first stanza shows the person who is almost persuaded finding a reason to delay. The second urges them to come today, reminding them that Jesus invites, angels linger, and prayers are rising. The third delivers the verdict: almost cannot avail. Almost is but to fail.
The closing image, “Almost but lost,” is among the most piercing lines in the English hymn tradition. This hymn appears as number 162 in the Gospel Hymns and Songs (GHS) collection, used in Deeper Life Bible Church and related assemblies across West Africa.
Hymn Lyrics – GHS 162: Almost Persuaded
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“Almost persuaded:” now to believe; “Almost persuaded:” Christ to receive; Seems now some soul to say, “Go, Spirit, go Thy way: Some more convenient day On Thee I’ll call.”
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“Almost persuaded:” come, come today! “Almost persuaded:” turn not away! Jesus invites you here, Angels are lingering near, Prayers rise from heart so dear, O wanderer, come!
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“Almost persuaded:” harvest is past! “Almost persuaded:” doom comes at last! “Almost” cannot avail; “Almost” is but to fail: Sad, sad, that bitter wail — “Almost” — but lost!
