When the King Shall Come Again
When the King shall come again
This hymn expresses Lutheran eschatology emphasizing Christ's return in glory, the resurrection of the dead, and the restoration of all creation according to Isaiah's vision of renewal. It reflects the Lutheran confidence in God's ultimate purposes while maintaining the tension between present suffering and future glory.
History & Background
Originally composed in German as 'Wenn der König wieder kommt' by Friedrich Ruthardt in 1911, appearing in German hymnals of the early 20th century. English translations have appeared in Lutheran hymnals since the mid-20th century with various textual adaptations.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 414
- Gather 4th Edition — 465
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 33
- Lutheran Service Book — 516
- Lutheran Worship — 33
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 341
Translation
composite English translation (multiple sources)
Bulletin Note
Composed by German Lutheran Friedrich Ruthardt in 1911, this hymn captures classic Lutheran eschatology: Christ returns in glory, the dead rise, and creation itself finds renewal—our hope rests not in this world's restoration, but in God's ultimate restoration through His Son.
Preaching Connection
This hymn's eschatological vision bridges Law and Gospel: the King comes as judge, yet His reign brings restoration—a powerful image for preaching how God's judgment serves His redemptive purpose in Christ.
Themes
Christ's Second Coming Last Judgment Renewal of Creation Kingdom of God Hope in Christ's Return