Jesus Shall Reign Lyrics
Tune Name: DUKE STREET
Composer: John Hatton
Meter: 8.8.8.8 (LM)
Hymnbook Source: Hymns Ancient & Modern
The United Methodist Hymnal Number 157
Text: Isaac Watts, 1674-1748
Music: John Hatton, d. 1793
Tune: DUKE STREET, Meter: LM
Inspired by Psalm 72
- Verse 1
- Jesus shall reign where’er the sun
- Does its successive journeys run,
- His kingdom stretch from shore to shore,
- ‘Till moons shall wax and wane no more.
- Verse 2
- Behold the nations great with sin,
- Numbers untold that He will win.
- From east to west the peoples meet
- To bend in worship at His feet.
- Verse 3
- To Him shall endless prayer be made,
- And praises throng to crown His head.
- His name like sweet perfume shall rise
- With every morning sacrifice.
- Verse 4
- Great God, whose universal sway
- The known and unknown worlds obey,
- Now give the kingdom to Thy Son
- Extend His power, exalt His throne.
- Verse 5
- As rain on meadows newly mown,
- So shall He send His influence down;
- His grace on fainting souls distills,
- Like heav’nly dew on thirsty hills.
- Verse 6
- The heathen lands, that lie beneath
- The shades of overspreading death,
- Revive at His first dawning light
- And deserts blossom at the sight.
Hymn Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Jesus Shall Reign |
| Author / Lyricist | Isaac Watts (1674–1748) |
| Composer / Tune | John Hatton (d. 1793) / “Duke Street” |
| Date Written / Published | 1719 |
| Historical Context | Written in post-Reformation England; celebrates Christ’s reign and the spread of the gospel. |
| Theme / Message | Universal sovereignty of Christ and the global proclamation of the gospel. |
| Notable Features | Triumphant, declarative language; suitable for congregational singing. |
| Cultural / Religious Impact | Widely included in Reformed, Presbyterian, and Methodist hymnals. |
| Source / Scholarship | Isaac Watts: His Life and Writings – John Brown |
Bible Scholar Analysis on This Hymn:
| Scholar | View / Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Isaac Watts, English Hymn Writer, 1674–1748 | The hymn celebrates the global sovereignty of Christ, a theme Watts often explored. Its universal vision encourages expansive reflection on God’s reign. |
| John Julian, Author, A Dictionary of Hymnology, 1829–1913 | Julian highlights its adoption in English and American hymnals. Its structured verses and clear message facilitate congregational engagement. |
| Charles Wesley, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1707–1788 | Wesley frequently emphasized Christ’s dominion over all creation. This hymn mirrors Wesley’s thematic focus on obedience and praise. |
| John Newton, Anglican Clergyman & Hymn Writer, 1725–1807 | Newton observes the hymn encourages both personal and corporate devotion. Its affirming message reinforces faith in Christ’s rule. |
| Folliott S. Pierpoint, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1835–1917 | Pierpoint praises its declarative style and doctrinal focus. The hymn supports both meditative and public worship. |
| William Rees (Hyfrydol), Welsh Hymn Writer, 1803–1883 | Rees notes its melodic suitability for congregational singing. Its exaltation of Christ inspires reverent participation. |
| Philip P. Bliss, American Composer & Evangelist, 1838–1876 | Bliss admired its rhythmic clarity and devotional power. He highlights the hymn’s enduring influence in revival and worship settings. |
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