On Jordan's Bank the Herald's Cry
On Jordan's bank the herald's cry
The hymn emphasizes repentance and preparation for Christ's coming, central to Lutheran Advent theology and understanding of Law and Gospel. It connects John's baptism of repentance to Christian baptism as a sign and seal of God's grace.
History & Background
Charles Coffin composed this Latin hymn as part of a Hymnal of the French Diocese in 1736. Charles Winkworth translated it into English in 1869, becoming the standard English version used in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Chalice Hymnal — 122
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 249
- Glory to God — 102
- The Hymnal 1982 — 76
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 36
- Lutheran Service Book — 344
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 61
- Lutheran Worship — 14
- New Century Hymnal — 115
- Trinity Hymnal — 143
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 63
- United Methodist Hymnal — 215
- Voices Together — 173
Translation
Bulletin Note
Charles Coffin's 1736 Latin hymn *Jordanis ripae prope* connects John's baptism of repentance to Christian baptism as covenant sign, making it a treasured Advent and Baptism text in Lutheran hymnody since its translation.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies Luther's Law-Gospel dialectic: John's stern summons to repentance announces the Law's demand, while Christ's baptism and promised redemption reveal the Gospel's comfort and mercy.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christ's compassionate presence amid human suffering and social chaos, calling the Church to incarnational witness and mercy
Themes
Repentance Baptism of Jesus Preparation for Christ John the Baptist Water and washing away of sin