Scripture Verse

The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light. Isaiah 9:2

Introduction

portrait
Edward J. Hopkins
1818–1901

Words: Ben­ja­min Bed­dome (1717–1795). Pub­lished post­hu­mous­ly in Hymns Adapt­ed to Pub­lic Wor­ship (Lon­don: Bu­rton & Briggs, 1818), num­ber 707. Ra­pid Spread of the Gos­pel.

Music: Wil­ders­mouth Ed­ward J. Hop­kins, 1879 (🔊 pdf nwc).

Alternate Tunes:

If you know where to get a good pic­ture of Bed­dome (head & shoul­ders, at least 200×300 pix­els),

Lyrics

See the vivid lightnings flashing,
Turning darksome night to day;
Swift the motion, great the power,
Nothing can obstruct the way;
All creation
Pay their homage and obey.

Thus shall spread the glorious Gospel,
To the earth’s remotest bound;
Distant empires, lands and nations,
Soon shall hear the solemn sound;
Darkness fleeing,
Light shall everywhere abound.

Grace and mercy then descending,
Shall the stubborn heart subdue,
Christ reveal His great salvation,
To the Gentile and the Jew;
Numerous converts
Shall appear like morning dew.

Lo, He comes in state and glory,
Bands celestial line the way;
Saints, go forth and meet your Savior,
And the deepest reverence pay;
Join your triumphs,
Hail the joyful, happy day.