Dickson said there are earlier Christian hymns — including several in the text of the New Testament — but none of them has the musical notation found in the P.Oxy. 1786.

Christian music writers Ben Fielding and Chris Tomlin were approached by a historian with a Christian artifact that needed to see new life. The result is a modern-day worship song and documentary.

The song is filled with Christian imagery, with worshippers telling the stars and wind to be silent as they praise God, “the giver of all good things,” but the tune is hard to sing.

Famous Christian artists Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding have revived a third century hymn discovered on ancient Egyptian papyrus, releasing a contemporary version of the song ahead of Easter.

The song How Firm a Foundation is a well-loved Christian hymn, often sung in churches to express trust in God’s strength and promises. With powerful lyrics and a steady melody, it’s become a ...