Ancient Words

This is a reflective song about Scripture.

It was written by American evangelical worship leader, songwriter and teacher, Lynn DeShazo (b. 1956).

The song has been recorded by a number of artists, including Michael W Smith - and is sometimes, incorrectly, attributed to him.   Some people have presented it as a Celtic tune.

It is set to an unnamed tune, also by DeShazo. This has a 3/4 time signature. In the key of F, the first few notes are CD F F_ GA A_ with accompanying chords C - F - C/F - F.

Downloads

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Digital-download SATB choir arrangement by Mary McDonald. 12 pages.

Examples

Professional recording, Celtic-style

Soloist with piano

Choir with chamber orchestra / band

Michael W Smith recording

Instrumental, piano and violin

Lyrics

The lyrics are copyright so cannot be reproduced here. But they are currently available on this website. A rough outline is:

1  Holy words long preserved for our walk in this world,

2  Words of life, words of hope, give us strength, help us cope

Chorus:
Ancient words, ever true,
Changing me, and changing you.
We have come with open hearts
Oh let the ancient words impart.

3  Holy words of our faith handed down to this age.

Repeat verse 1, then chorus 

See more ...

• Hymns about Scripture
• Celtic-style hymns

Image adapt. from PxFuel - CC0

KEEP IN CASE ORIGINAL IS REMOVED, BUT DO NOT DISPLAY 1. Holy words long preserved
for our walk in this world,
They resound with God's own heart.
Oh let the ancient words impart

2. Words of Life, words of Hope
Give us strength, help us cope
In this world, where e'er we roam
Ancient words will guide us Home.

CHORUS:
Ancient words ever true
Changing me and changing you,
We have come with open hearts
Oh let the ancient words impart.

3. Holy words of our Faith
Handed down to this age
Came to us through sacrifice
Oh heed the faithful words of Christ.

4. Holy words long preserved
For our walk in this world.
They resound with God's own heart
Oh let the ancient words impart.