How Beauteous Are Their Feet
How beauteous are their feet
This hymn embodies the Lutheran emphasis on the external word and the proclamation of the Gospel as the means of grace and salvation. It reflects the Great Commission imperative central to Lutheran missiology and the joy of the redeemed in witnessing to Christ's redemptive work.
History & Background
Isaac Watts composed this hymn in 1719 as part of his scriptural song interpretations, particularly drawing from Isaiah 52:7. The hymn became a staple of English-speaking Protestant worship and was included in The Evangelical Lutheran Hymnal (1931) as hymn 487.
Hymnal Appearances
- The Hymnal 1982 — 549
- Trinity Hymnal — 473
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 487
Bulletin Note
Isaac Watts (1719). This English Dissenter crafted a hymn rooted in Romans 10:15, emphasizing the beauty of Gospel proclamation as the primary means by which God gathers His redeemed people.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the Great Commission from legal obligation into joyful proclamation, showing how the Gospel announced freely stirs the heart of the redeemed to witness boldly.
Themes
Missionary zeal Evangelism and proclamation Good news of salvation Divine calling