Battle Hymn of the Republic
Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord
The hymn presents eschatological themes of divine judgment and the triumph of God's righteousness in history, expressing confidence in God's ultimate justice. For Lutherans, it exemplifies how secular struggle can be viewed through the lens of ultimate divine purpose, though its triumphalism requires careful theological contextualization.
History & Background
Written by Julia Ward Howe in November 1861 during the American Civil War, the poem was first published in The Atlantic Monthly in February 1862 set to the tune of the popular marching song 'John Brown's Body.' The hymn became an anthem for the Union cause and remains widely used in American Protestant worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- Baptist Hymnal — 660
- Chalice Hymnal — 721
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 890
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 332
- United Methodist Hymnal — 717
Bulletin Note
Written by abolitionist Julia Ward Howe in 1861, this hymn sets prophetic conviction to a rousing melody, casting historical struggle within God's cosmic drama of judgment and redemption.
Preaching Connection
This hymn's eschatological vision of divine judgment can deepen any sermon on God's Law exposing evil and Gospel promising that history belongs to Christ, not to earthly powers.
Themes
God's justice and judgment Divine providence Christian hope Social righteousness