Arise O God and Shine
Arise, O God, and shine
This hymn emphasizes the missionary imperative rooted in Isaiah 60:3, proclaiming that the light of Christ must shine to all nations. Its inclusion in TLH reflects Lutheran commitment to both personal faith and the proclamation of the Gospel to those in darkness.
History & Background
Written by William Cowper in 1771, this hymn was first published in the Olney Hymns collection of 1779. It has been widely adopted in Protestant hymnals, particularly those of English and Lutheran traditions.
Hymnal Appearances
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 642
Bulletin Note
Written by William Cowper in 1771, this missionary hymn expresses the evangelical fervor of the English hymn revival while rooting Christian witness in Isaiah's prophecy of nations flowing to God's light.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the missionary imperative from mere duty into joyful participation in God's saving work, anchoring evangelism not in human effort but in the Gospel promise that all nations shall behold God's glory.
Themes
Mission and witness Light of Christ Gospel proclamation Gentile salvation Church's calling