The Advent of Our King
The Advent of our King
This hymn emphasizes Christ's dual advent—His historical incarnation and His future coming in judgment—essential to Lutheran eschatology and Christology. It calls believers to watchful preparation and moral renewal, reflecting the Law-Gospel dynamic central to Lutheran piety.
History & Background
Charles Coffin composed this Latin hymn in early 18th-century France as part of the Parisian Breviary revision. John Chandler's 1837 English translation became standard in Lutheran and other Protestant hymnals throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 264
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 22
- Lutheran Service Book — 331
- Lutheran Worship — 12
- Trinity Hymnal — 109
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 68
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Charles Coffin in 1736, this Latin hymn weaves together incarnation and eschatology, reflecting the medieval Advent tradition of watchful longing. A masterwork of Reformation hymnody.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran rhythm of Law and Gospel: it diagnoses our spiritual unreadiness through urgent calls to repentance, then anchors hope entirely in Christ's return and the triumph of His kingdom.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Affection for the Church → Covenantal belonging → Sacrificial devotion → Transcendent joy in communion
Themes
Christ's coming Kingdom of God Royal messiahship Christian preparation Judgment