Upon This Rock
Description
Upon This Rock
John Ness Beck
Conductor: Seth Bergey
https://www.lyricasacra.com
The Historic Faith · Hymn Companion
Upon This Rock
Words by Biblical text, adapted by John Ness BeckMusic by John Ness Beck
Upon this rock I will build my church,
and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Story Behind the Song
“Upon This Rock” is a sacred choral anthem by American church composer John Ness Beck, whose works were widely published for Protestant choirs in the late twentieth century. The title and principal idea come from Jesus’ words in Matthew 16:18: “upon this rock I will build my church.” It is known primarily as an anthem/octavo rather than as a congregational hymn with a standard hymn tune.