Echoes of Eternity: The Resurgence of the First Hymn and the Timeless Power of Worship
In a breathtaking fusion of ancient devotion and modern artistry, Grammy-winning worship leader Chris Tomlin and acclaimed songwriter Ben Fielding have unveiled a sacred treasure—the oldest known Christian hymn, “P.Oxy 1786,” now reborn as The First Hymn. Discovered in the sands of Oxyrhynchus over a century ago, this 1,800-year-old artifact carries not only lyrics but the original musical notations of early believers, offering a rare glimpse into the worship of the ancient Church. With lyrics that call creation itself to silence in reverence—“Let all be silent: The shining stars not sound forth, All rushing rivers stilled”—the hymn resounds with a power that transcends time, bridging the gap between the martyrs of the past and the faithful of today. Tomlin’s profound reverence for this project is palpable as he reflects, “We stand in a long line of brave and bold believers, singing alongside them.”
Accompanying this musical resurrection is a feature-length documentary by historian Dr. John Dickson, tracing the hymn’s journey from a fragile papyrus fragment to a soaring modern anthem. Premiering in Los Angeles before streaming worldwide, the documentary and live performances—including a stirring debut at Washington D.C.’s Museum of the Bible—invite audiences to witness worship as an unbroken chain across millennia. Tomlin’s awe is evident as he declares, “The worship of the one true God… has echoed through generations.” This project is more than a song; it is a testament to the endurance of faith, a reminder that the Church’s praise is not a fleeting trend but an eternal chorus, begun long before us and destined to outlast us all.
Meanwhile, Tomlin’s annual Good Friday concert at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena stands as another testament to worship’s transformative power. Now in its ninth year, the event has become a sacred gathering—a moment where thousands unite to remember the cross, celebrate redemption, and support foster care through Tomlin’s nonprofit, For Others. “It’s a place where the church remembers why we gather,” he shares, his voice brimming with passion. Together, The First Hymn and Good Friday Nashville embody worship’s dual nature: both a historical legacy and a living, breathing force. As Tomlin and Fielding resurrect the echoes of ancient believers, they remind us that true worship is timeless—a melody of heaven, sung by saints across the ages.
