One of the best things about classic Christmas hymns is how good they are at biblical theology, of grasping how the incarnation fits in the story of the whole Bible. Many of these songs are filled with allusions to Old Testament texts which people today often miss, and these songs often connect Christ\u2019s coming with the ultimate consummation of all things. They also contain profound doctrinal reflection on the incarnation, salvation and other themes. Singing these songs with your church and your family is a great way to help people catch this overall picture of the storyline of the Bible.<\/p>\n
Charles Wesley was particularly good at this as can be seen in his song, \u201cHark the Herald Angels Sing.\u201d We typically sing the first three verses which are rich and profound. However, the next two verses, which are often skipped, continue this richness tying in the promise of Gen 3:15 and Pauline Second Adam Christology. Wow!<\/p>\n
Come, Desire of nations, come,
\nFix in us Thy humble home;
\nRise, the woman\u2019s conqu\u2019ring Seed,
\nBruise in us the serpent\u2019s head.
\nNow display Thy saving power,
\nRuined nature now restore;
\nNow in mystic union join
\nThine to ours, and ours to Thine.<\/strong><\/p>\nRefrain<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n
Adam\u2019s likeness, Lord, efface,
\nStamp Thine image in its place:
\nSecond Adam from above,
\nReinstate us in Thy love.
\nLet us Thee, though lost, regain,
\nThee, the Life, the inner man:
\nO, to all Thyself impart,
\nFormed in each believing heart.<\/strong><\/p>\nRefrain<\/em><\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
These hymns are a rich treasure of the church. Let us make use of them for ourselves, our families and our churches to help us contemplate fully and faithfully the marvelous saving work of God in Christ this Christmas.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
One of the best things about classic Christmas hymns is how good they are at biblical theology, of grasping how the incarnation fits in the story of the whole Bible. Many of these songs are filled with allusions to Old Testament texts which people today often miss, and these songs often connect Christ\u2019s coming with …<\/p>\n