Scripture Verse

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1

Introduction

portrait
Joseph Summers
1839–1917

Words: Jo­si­ah Con­der, The Con­gre­ga­tion­al Hymn Book 1836.

Music: Pal­my­ra Jo­seph Sum­mers, 1863 (🔊 pdf nwc).

portrait
Josiah Conder
1789–1855

Lyrics

Thou art the everlasting Word,
The Father’s only Son;
God manifestly seen and heard,
And Heav’n’s belovèd one:

Refrain

Worthy, O Lamb of God, art Thou
That every knee to Thee should bow.

In Thee most perfectly expressed
The Father’s glories shine;
Of the full deity possessed,
Eternally divine:

Refrain

True image of the Infinite,
Whose essence is concealed;
Brightness of uncreated light;
The heart of God revealed:

Refrain

But the high mysteries of Thy name
An angel’s grasp transcend;
The Father only—glorious claim!—
The Son can comprehend:

Refrain

Throughout the universe of bliss,
The center Thou, and sun;
Th’eternal theme of praise of this,
To Heav’n’s belovèd one:

Refrain