17 Aug GS 2010 art 163
GS 2010 Article 163 – Hymn: Jesus Shall Reign
1. Material
- 1.1 Letters from Neerlandia (8.3.J.23) and Langley (8.3.J.31).
- 1.2 SCBP Report, Section Four, 10.3.II.6 (8.2.j).
2. Observations
- 2.1 This hymn is about the ascension and kingship of the Lord Jesus Christ, and is a paraphrase of parts of Psalm 72.
- 2.2 The SCBP recommends that this hymn not be included in the expanded hymn section of the Book of Praise, since it was criticized by many churches as an inaccurate rendition of Psalm 72.
- 2.3 The SCBP further reports that churches found the melody of this hymn to be good, but that its content was “too generic,” “too vague,” “lacked a clear scriptural basis,” and leaves out “the clear antithetical elements of Psalm 72.”
- 2.4 Langley proposes that this hymn be included, since it is comprehensive and fitting in its context. They suggest that it is a poetic and fitting reflection on and response to Christ’s exaltation.
3. Considerations
- 3.1 It is not incorrect to paraphrase scriptural words as the basis for a hymn. The real question is whether the hymn is faithful to Scripture in what it says.
- 3.2 “Jesus Shall Reign” is based on parts of Psalm 72, and is faithful to Scripture in what it says. As Langley correctly indicates, it is “a fitting reflection on and response to Christ’s exaltation.”
- 3.3 The melody of “Jesus Shall Reign” is triumphant and beautiful, and appropriate for a hymn celebrating the ascension and kingship of the Lord Jesus Christ.
4. Recommendation
That Synod decide to approve Hymn # 6 Jesus Shall Reign for inclusion in the expanded hymn section of the Book of Praise, contrary to the recommendation of the SCBP.