Who Is This Host Arrayed in White
Who is this host arrayed in white
The hymn reflects the Lutheran understanding of the communion of saints and the resurrection of all believers, connecting earthly struggle with heavenly vindication. It emphasizes Christ's victory over death and the eternal joy of those redeemed through His sacrifice.
History & Background
Written by Christlieb Kindermann in German as 'Wer ist das Heer, das weiß bekleidet' and published in his hymnbook in 1674. English translations developed during the 19th and 20th centuries for Lutheran hymnals, becoming a standard hymn in English-language Lutheran worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 424
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 314
- Lutheran Service Book — 676
- Lutheran Worship — 192
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 656
Translation
Bulletin Note
Christlieb Kindermann's 1674 German hymn celebrates the resurrection of all believers and the communion of saints—a distinctly Lutheran affirmation that grace, not works, clothes us in eternal glory.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the Law's exposure of our earthly struggle into the Gospel's proclamation of resurrection glory, showing how Christ's redemption answers every fear of death with the promise of white robes and endless praise.
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 as foundation → universal redemption → eternal security → communion of saints
Themes
Saints and martyrs Heavenly glory Resurrection hope Cloud of witnesses Redemption through Christ