When Christ's Appearing Was Made Known
When Christ's appearing was made known
The hymn celebrates the Epiphany mystery of Christ's manifestation to the gentile Magi, emphasizing His universal kingship and redemptive purpose. It reflects Lutheran appreciation for patristic theology and the revelation of Christ as light to all nations.
History & Background
Based on Sedulius's 5th-century Latin hymn 'A solis ortus cardine,' this text derives from the classical Latin hymnody of the early Church. John Mason Neale translated and adapted it in the 19th century for Anglican and Lutheran use.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 306
- The Hymnal 1982 — 127
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 85
- Lutheran Worship — 81
Translation
Bulletin Note
Attributed to Coelius Sedulius (5th century), this Epiphany hymn reflects patristic theology on Christ's manifestation to the Gentiles, emphasizing His kingship and the drawing of all peoples to redemptive light through grace alone.
Preaching Connection
This hymn's proclamation of Christ as universal light and King amplifies the Gospel's radical inclusion of the nations and responds to any law-bound thinking that God's grace belongs only to the chosen few.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Ascription of praise to God's sovereign power and love, followed by personal testimony of healing and sanctification, culminating in lifelong grateful service
Themes
Incarnation Manifestation of Christ Light and revelation Homage to Christ Universal redemption