All the tribes of the earth [shall] mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
Matthew 24:30
Words: Benjamin Beddome (1717–1795). Published posthumously in Hymns Adapted to Public Worship (London: Burton & Briggs, 1818), number 794, alt. Wrath and Mercy.
Music: Lambeth (Schulthes) Wilhelm A. F. Schulthes, 1871 (🔊 pdf nwc).
Alternate Tunes:
If you know where to get a good picture of Beddome (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
On spreading clouds, the Judge supreme
Comes flying all abroad;
Mountains and rocks and seas proclaim
The presence of their God.
Ten thousand spirits near His throne,
In humble forms adore;
While nations sink beneath His frown,
Or tremble at His power.
Now He appears in majesty,
And draws His flaming sword;
See guilty hearts in terror fly
Before their sovereign Lord.
Rejoice, ye saints, this mighty One
Is your unfailing friend;
That arm which casts the rebel down,
The righteous shall defend.