The Day is Surely Drawing Near
The day is surely drawing near
This hymn exemplifies Lutheran Advent theology by focusing on the reality of Christ's imminent return and the necessity of spiritual preparedness through repentance. It balances the fear of judgment with the assurance of Christ's mercy, reflecting the Law-Gospel dynamic central to Lutheran proclamation.
History & Background
Martin Behm composed this German hymn in 1610 as a meditation on Christ's return and the Last Day, reflecting 17th-century Lutheran eschatological piety. The English text was provided by Martin H. Behm in the Lutheran Hymnal (1941) and has remained standard in Lutheran hymnals since.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 321
- Lutheran Service Book — 508
- Lutheran Worship — 462
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 611
Translation
Martin H. Behm (English adaptation)
Bulletin Note
Composed by Martin Behm in 1610, this Advent hymn embodies Lutheran theology: Christ's return summons sinners to repentance yet assures believers of His redemptive grace. A steadfast witness to the Law-Gospel dynamic.
Preaching Connection
This hymn amplifies the kerygmatic power of Advent proclamation by anchoring repentance not in fear alone but in the mercy of Christ, making it a perfect theological companion to sermons on the Two Kingdoms or the Last Day.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Christ’s Return to Judgment Augsburg Confession
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christ's first advent in grace → bestowal of saving grace → Christ's second advent in judgment → urgent call to repentance and welcome
Themes
Last Things/Eschatology Final Judgment Christ's Return Repentance Watchfulness