Come Down, O Love Divine
Come down, O Love divine
The hymn expresses the Lutheran understanding of sanctification through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the transformative power of divine love in the Christian life. It reflects the Reformation's emphasis on the Spirit's work in believers while maintaining the medieval devotional language of mystical union with God.
History & Background
Originally written in Italian by the Carmelite mystic Bianco da Siena in the 15th century, this contemplative hymn reflects medieval Catholic spirituality. Richard Frederick Littledale translated it into English in 1867, making it accessible to Protestant hymnody and widely adopted by Lutheran churches in the 20th century.
Hymnal Appearances
- Chalice Hymnal — 582
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 321
- Glory to God — 282
- The Hymnal 1982 — 516
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 508
- Lutheran Service Book — 501
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 628
- Lutheran Worship — 162
- New Century Hymnal — 289
- Trinity Hymnal — 334
- Voices Together — 32
- With One Voice — 711
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Bianco da Siena, a 15th-century Italian mystic, this hymn captures medieval devotion to the Holy Spirit. Its soaring melody DOWN AMPNEY carries the image of divine love descending to transform human hearts into vessels of holiness.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Gospel's promise that God's sanctifying love actively indwells believers, moving them from self-centeredness to Christ-like devotion—a powerful witness to the Spirit's regenerating work proclaimed in Law and Gospel.
Themes
Holy Spirit Divine love Mystical union with God Spiritual transformation Sanctification