Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal

“Jesus Paid It All” is a beloved hymn that proclaims the complete and saving work of Jesus Christ on behalf of humanity. It emphasizes that salvation is entirely the result of Christ’s sacrifice—His blood cleanses, restores, and renews every repentant soul.

The hymn expresses deep personal gratitude: acknowledging human weakness, confessing the inability to save oneself, and celebrating the grace that fully pays the debt of sin. Its simple yet profound refrain—“Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe”—beautifully captures the heart of the gospel message.

With its reflective melody and powerful confession of faith, the hymn is treasured in worship services focused on forgiveness, redemption, and the cross of Christ.

1. Lyrics by Elvina M. Hall (1865)
The words of “Jesus Paid It All” were written in 1865 by Elvina M. Hall, a member of the Monument Street Methodist Church in Baltimore, Maryland. According to tradition, she wrote the poem during a long pastoral prayer, reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice and her own need for cleansing.

Hall later gave her poem to the church’s organist, who recognized its spiritual depth and potential as a hymn.

2. Music by John T. Grape
The hymn’s tune, “All to Christ I Owe,” was composed by John T. Grape, also an organist at the same church. Grape had recently written a melody he called “All to Christ I Owe.” When Hall’s poem was shared with him, the pastor suggested combining the two.

The pairing proved perfect: Grape’s tender, contemplative tune uplifted Hall’s message of grace and redemption. The hymn quickly became popular across the United States.

3. Early Publication and Spread
The hymn was first published in the 1868 collection Sabbath Carols and soon appeared in many hymnals across denominations. Its enduring popularity comes from its clear presentation of the gospel and its deeply personal tone.