Randall Goodgame's "Scripture Hymnal" Unveils a Treasury of Bible Songs

By Timothy Yap Sep 18, 2024 07:47 AM EDT

A groundbreaking new collection showcasing more than 100 word-for-word Bible passages set to original music, the highly anticipated Scripture Hymnal bows October 21 from Rabbit Room Press and is now available for preorder. Bringing to fruition the long-held vision of Dove Award-nominated Slugs & Bugs creator Randall Goodgame, the 320-page hardcover Scripture Hymnal is a thoughtful treasury of newly minted songs designed to help make the Bible more accessible for all ages.

Intended for corporate worship on Sunday morning as well as singing around the piano at home, the Scripture Hymnal was conceived and written by Goodgame along with contributions from a diversity of award-winning songwriters, including Ellie Holcomb, Ginny Owens, Andrew Osenga, Taylor Leonhardt, Dwan Hill and Ben Shive, among others.

Offering unique musical settings of numerous verses throughout the Bible, the Scripture Hymnal features such selections as "In The Beginning" (Genesis 1:1); "Those Who Look To Him Are Radiant" (Psalm 34:4-6); "Create In Me A Clean Heart" (Psalm 51:1-2, 10); and "Those Who Trust In The Lord" (Psalm 125:1-2).

"The Slugs & Bugs Sing the Bible series began with songs for my kids to help them remember their weekly Bible verse, but from the beginning it was clear that singing Scripture also helped me in my walk with Jesus," Goodgame explains. "I've longed for Scripture singing to be more accessible to the Church at large, so a few years ago I began writing new songs with congregations in mind."

"Our hope is that this collection of over 100 word-for-word Scripture songs will be endlessly useful in congregational worship, at home, in youth group, in devotional time, in children's Sunday school, and in many other ways I can't even fathom yet," he adds.

The hardbound volume-featuring hand-drawn cover art and interior illustrations from Stephen Crotts-contains piano accompaniment for more than 100 songs as well as a QR code offering access to downloadable instrumental tracks, sheet music and chord charts; quotes from modern and ancient Church leaders; and resources for worship planning.