Traditional hymns are a great way to tell the gospel for several reasons
– It’s a song, so you can remember the words (at least you can mumble along until a familiar line)
– Tying the verses back to scriptural references allows one to go deeper in context and content
– These are not flash in the pan tunes; they will likely last a while longer
– There is emotion, feeling, and beauty in the singing
Holy, Holy, Holy (words by Reginald Heber in 1826 and tune by John B Dykes in 1861) is a glorious worship hymn, with voices upraised to echo what the first verse says – “our song shall rise to thee, Lord God Almighty.” Three times holy, three persons, blessed trinity. The whole creation exalts the creator; saints, cherubim and seraphim acknowledge His greatness in multiple ways. Only the One True God is holy and perfect, radiating power, love and purity. The need for a savior is expressly stated as sinful man can’t even look on God’s holiness; the redeeming role of the second person of the Trinity is implied – as saints are able to adore the Lord in heaven.
- Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee; Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty! God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!
- Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore Thee, Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea; Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee, Who was, and is, and evermore shall be.
- Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide Thee, Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see; Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee, Perfect in pow’r, in love, and purity.
- Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! All Thy works shall praise Thy Name, in earth, and sky, and sea; Holy, holy, holy; merciful and mighty! God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!
A. Knapp for That 