Ray. 16:14-16; 19:11-21.
In this, and the two following hymns, the threefold glory of Christ in his kingdom hereafter is set forth: namely, that in connection with his CHURCH in the heavenly places—with ISRAEL next—and then with the GENTILES both upon earth under the scepter of Christ.
“Gird thy sword upon thy thigh, O most Mighty, with thy glory and thy majesty."
Lo, 'tis the heavenly army,
The Lord of hosts attending;
'Tis he-the Lamb, The Great I AM,
With all his saints descending.
To you, ye kings and nations,
Ye foes of Christ, assembling,
The hosts of light,
Prepared for fight,
Come with the cup of trembling.
ISRAEL AND THE NATIONS
Joy to his ancient people
Your bonds he comes to sever—
And now, 'tis done!
The Lord hath won,
And ye are free forever—
Joy to the ransom'd nations!
The foe, the rav'ning lion,
Is bound in chains
While Jesus reigns,
King of the earth, in Zion.
THE CHURCH
Joy to the Church triumphant,
The Savior's throne surrounding,
They see his face,
Adore his grace
O'er all their sin abounding—
Crowned with the mighty Victor,
His royal glory sharing;
Each fills a throne,
His name alone
To heaven and earth declaring.
Praise to the Lamb forever!
Bruised for our sin, and gory,
Behold his brow, Encircled now
With all his crowns of glory—
Beneath his love reposing,
The whole redeem'd creation
Is now at rest,
Forever blest,
And sings his great salvation.