Hymn Composers 2 Trivia Quiz

Answer: J.W. Van de Venter

Mr.J.W. Van de Venter struggled between going into full-time evangelist work, or becoming a recognized artist. When it came time for him to make his decision he surrendered all to Christ and became an evangelist. Afterward, he realized God had hidden a song in his heart. Resulting from this, he influenced the early preaching of Billy Graham.

Answer: Fanny Crosby

On her first visit to Chicago's Bowery Mission, Fanny Crosby was asked to speak at the end of the service. She led one man to Christ. Following that evening, many souls found Christ. She spoke another evening and led one boy to Christ. Afterwards a friend remarked, "Isn't it wonderful what these rescue missions are doing?" That statement inspired the writing of this hymn.

Answer: 'Softly and Tenderly'

Will L. Thompson, born in Ohio, attended Boston Music School and studied music in Germany. He had a successful career writing secular songs, but started writing Gospel hymns instead. He was known as a quiet, kind, Christian gentleman despite his sizable income. Often he would ride from town to town in Ohio singing his songs to everyone.

This particular hymn was D.L Moody's favorite and was used in the evangelistic meetings held in Britain and America.

Answer: 'We Shall Behold Him'

Dottie Rambo and her friend were headed to a revival meeting. Driving away from the hotel Dottie Rambo saw the most unusual cloud formation, that had so many beautiful colors it seemed to take on the form of angels. As they parted it was like she could see the Savior coming with trumpets shouting.

When she reached the meeting she had the whole song written in her heart, and she could play it on her guitar perfectly.

Answer: 'Make Me a Blessing'

George Shuler and Ira Wilson were roomates in college. Shuler wrote the music and Wilson wrote the lyrics. After being rejected by the publishers, Shuler printed 1,000 copies to distribute on his own. One found its way to George Dibble, an outstanding singer, who asked permission to use it.

After being granted permission, people everwhere started singing it. Soon publishers wanted it. What's really funny is that between the writing of the song to the time it was well-known, Wilson apparently forgot he had written those very words!