LCTM 233 The Origin of Hymns
Dr. Robert J Morgan
For more information on Dr. Morgan.
In-Person Intensive | July 24-25, 2026
Course Description
From the first recorded hymn in Exodus 15 to today’s contemporary praise and worship music, the people of God have always expressed their faith through songs, hymns, and spiritual songs. This course explores the history, theology, and enduring influence of Christian hymnody. Students will examine the origins of hymns, the lives and writings of major hymn writers, and the role of congregational singing in public worship. The course will also consider the cultural influence of hymnody and suggest ways of maximizing its value in modern worship and ministry.
This course is an elective toward the Lanier Certificate in Theology and Ministry (5 contact hours).
Instructor
Dr. Robert J Morgan, Pastor and Author, Associate Pastor of World Outreach Church in Murfreesboro TN and the Bible Teacher on the Robert J. Morgan Podcast
Schedule
Friday, July 24
Session 1: From Exodus to Benjamin Keach: The Early History of Sacred Song
Session 2: From Benjamin Keach to Keith Getty: The Development of English Hymnody
Saturday, July 25
Session 3: The Personal Value of Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs
Session 4: The Public Use of Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs
Lunch
Session 5: Subjective and Objective Music, Plus a Couple of Final Hymn Stories