How could such a brilliant man as Sir John Bowring (fluent in 22 languages and conversant in many more) pen the beautiful hymn In the Cross of Christ I Glory and still be known as the most unpopular governor Hong Kong ever had?  Bowring's accomplishments were many and in his younger days, this follower of Christ gave us many wonderful hymns.  Sadly, as too often happens in positions of political power, he took his eyes off Christ and was corrupted by that power.  Nonetheless, we are blessed by the things he did for Christ.

Article taken from Living Stories of Famous Hymns by Ernest K. Emurian. Copyright © 1955 by Baker Book House Company. Used by permission of Baker Book House Company.