The Man is Ever Blessed
The man is ever blessed
This hymn expresses the Lutheran emphasis on Scripture and God's Word as the source of blessing and right living, reflecting the Reformation's commitment to sola scriptura. It presents the Law's clear distinction between the blessed path of righteousness and the condemnation of wickedness, calling believers to meditation on God's Word.
History & Background
Written by Cornelius Elven, an English clergyman, in 1860 as a metrical paraphrase of Psalm 1. The hymn was published in English hymnals and has been a standard paraphrastic treatment of the opening psalm in Lutheran worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 705
- Lutheran Worship — 388
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 414
Bulletin Note
Written by Cornelius Elven in 1860, this C.M. hymn embodies the Lutheran conviction that Scripture meditation brings blessedness—recovering the Reformation's sola scriptura principle for congregational song.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens the Law-Gospel proclamation by showing that the Law's condemnation of wickedness and the Gospel's promise of blessing through God's Word work together to draw sinners toward repentance and faith.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From conviction of sin and burden (Law) to confidence in Christ's hearing and answering (Gospel) to assurance of complete provision (Gospel) to commitment in pilgrimage (Gospel)
Themes
Blessedness of the righteous Rejection of wickedness God's Word and meditation Prosperity of the faithful Contrast between righteous and wicked