The Bridegroom Soon Will Call Us
The Bridegroom soon will call us
The hymn emphasizes vigilant Christian living in anticipation of Christ's parousia, reflecting Lutheran eschatological hope grounded in Christ's promise. It combines the Reformation emphasis on readiness through faith with the traditional bridal imagery of the church awaiting her Lord.
History & Background
Philipp Nicolai composed this hymn in 1599 as part of a devotional work during a plague outbreak in Westphalia. The text was translated into English by Catherine Winkworth in 1863 and has been widely used in Lutheran hymnals since.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 514
- Lutheran Worship — 176
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 67
Translation
Bulletin Note
Philipp Nicolai (1556–1608) composed this hymn during plague in Westphalia, wrestling with mortality and Christ's parousia. Its twin melody BRIDEGROOM became a cornerstone of Lutheran mystical theology and personal devotion.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the eschatological tension of Law and Gospel: the call to readiness mirrors the Law's demand for righteousness, while the promised joy of meeting the Bridegroom anchors believers in Gospel certainty.
Themes
Christ's return Vigilance and readiness Eschatology Bridal theology Judgment