Jesus Christ…the first begotten of the dead.
Revelation 1:5
Words: George H. Bourne, Seven Post Communion Hymns 1874, alt.
Music: Bryn Calfaria William Owen, 1852 (🔊 pdf nwc).
Alternate Tunes:
If you know where to get a good picture of Bourne or Owen (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Lord, enthroned in heavenly splendor,
First begotten from the dead,
You alone, our strong defender,
Now lift up Your people’s head.
Refrain
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Jesus, true and living bread!
Jesus, true and living bread!
Here our humblest homage pay we,
Here in loving reverence bow;
Here for faith’s discernment pray we,
Lest we fail to know You now.
Refrain
Though the lowliest form doth veil Thee
As of old in Bethlehem,
Here as there Thine angels hail Thee,
Branch and flower of Jesse’s stem.
Refrain
Paschal Lamb, Your offering finished
Once for all when You were slain,
In its fullness undiminished
Shall forevermore remain.
Refrain
Great high priest of our profession,
Through the veil Thou wentest in,
By Thy mighty intercession,
Grace and peace for us to win.
Refrain
Life imparting heavenly manna,
Smitten rock with streaming side,
Heaven and earth with loud hosanna
Worship You, the Lamb who died.
Refrain