William Tidd Matson

William Tidd Matson was an American Methodist minister, evangelist, and hymn writer associated with the revival movements of the nineteenth century. Born in New York, he pursued theological training and entered the Methodist ministry where he served as a pastor and evangelistic preacher. Matson participated in revival meetings across the United States and used music as an important part of evangelistic outreach. He wrote several gospel hymn texts that were included in revival songbooks and church hymnals. His hymns typically emphasized themes of salvation, repentance, and commitment to Christ. Matson work contributed to the expanding tradition of American gospel hymnody which encouraged active congregational singing and personal expressions of faith. His ministry and writing reflect the energy and evangelistic spirit of the Methodist revival tradition.