17 Aug GS 2010 art 139
GS 2010 Article 139 – Hymn: The Strife is O’er, the Battle Done
1. Material
- 1.1 Letter from Langley (8.3.J.31).
- 1.2 SCBP Report, Section Four, 10.3.II.22 (8.2.j).
2. Observations
- 2.1 This hymn is a celebration of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.
- 2.2 The SCBP notes that this hymn adds little new material on the topic of Christ’s resurrection to the hymn section. Further, the committee notes that the expression in the third stanza, “The three sad days are quickly sped” is not found anywhere in Scripture.
- 2.3 Langley observes that this hymn has been well-received and joyfully sung in the congregation there. They further observe that the expression, “The three sad days are quickly sped” do appropriately convey the joy and hope that we have because of Christ’s resurrection.
3. Considerations
- 3.1 The arguments presented by the SCBC against the inclusion of this hymn are not strong. Stating that a hymn adds little new material is not an argument against including that hymn. Pointing out that some words used in a hymn are not “found anywhere in Scripture” does not make those words unscriptural. The words in question reflect, in a poetic way, the swift and decisive character of Christ’s victory over death.
- 3.2 The melody of this hymn is completely in keeping with the joyful subject of Christ’s resurrection. It would be an excellent addition to the hymn section of the Book of Praise.
4. Recommendation
That Synod decide to approve Augment # 22 The Strife is O’er, the Battle Done for inclusion in the expanded hymn section of the Book of Praise, contrary to the recommendation of the SCBP.