The Royal Banners Forward Go
The royal banners forward go
This hymn presents Christ's cross as the instrument of cosmic redemption and victory, central to Lutheran understanding of substitutionary atonement. The text embodies the paradox of the cross as simultaneously sign of shame and supreme triumph, reflecting Lutheran emphasis on Christ's sacrificial work.
History & Background
Composed by Venantius Fortunatus in the 6th century as a processional hymn for the relic of the True Cross brought to the Church of the Holy Cross in Poitiers. The Latin hymn 'Vexilla Regis prodeunt' became one of the most important liturgical texts of the medieval church, particularly for Holy Week worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 329
- The Hymnal 1982 — 162
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 125
- Lutheran Service Book — 455
- Lutheran Worship — 104
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 168
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Venantius Fortunatus in 569, this processional hymn accompanied the relic of the True Cross during Holy Week observances. Its martial imagery transformed medieval piety, celebrating Christ's cross as cosmic victory.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the paradox of the cross—the Law's ultimate condemnation suspended on wood, yet transformed by the Gospel into God's banner of grace and eternal victory.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Third Article (Concerning Sanctification) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christ's forty-day fast as pattern for believer's Lenten struggle against sin, culminating in Easter resurrection hope
Themes
Cross and Redemption Victory of Christ Atonement Sign of Salvation Suffering and Triumph