Angels from the Realm of Glory is a popular Christmas carol that was written by James Montgomery in 1816. The hymn tells the story of the angels announcing the birth of Jesus to the shepherds and invites all to come and worship the newborn King. The hymn is usually sung to the tune of “Regent Square,” which was composed by Henry Smart in 1867.
Verse 1
Angels from the realms of glory,
Wing your flight o’er all the earth;
Ye who sang creation’s story,
Now proclaim Messiah’s birth:
Come and worship, come and worship,
Worship Christ, the newborn King.
The first verse of the hymn calls upon the angels to spread the news of Jesus’ birth to the whole world. The verse also invites all to come and worship the newborn King.
Verse 2
Shepherds, in the field abiding,
Watching o’er your flocks by night,
God with man is now residing;
Yonder shines the infant light:
Come and worship, come and worship,
Worship Christ, the newborn King.
The second verse of the hymn addresses the shepherds who were the first to receive the news of Jesus’ birth. It reminds them that God has come to dwell among men and invites them to come and worship the newborn King.
Verse 3
Sages, leave your contemplations,
Brighter visions beam afar;
Seek the great desire of nations;
Ye have seen His natal star:
Come and worship, come and worship,
Worship Christ, the newborn King.
The third verse of the hymn addresses the wise men who followed the star to find the newborn King. It invites them to leave their contemplations and come and worship the Savior.
Verse 4
Saints, before the altar bending,
Watching long in hope and fear;
Suddenly the Lord, descending,
In His temple shall appear:
Come and worship, come and worship,
Worship Christ, the newborn King.
The fourth verse of the hymn addresses the saints who are waiting for the coming of the Lord. It reminds them that the Lord will suddenly appear in His temple and invites them to come and worship the newborn King.
Verse 5
All creation, join in praising
God the Father, Spirit, Son,
Evermore your voices raising,
To th’eternal Three in One:
Come and worship, come and worship,
Worship Christ, the newborn King.
The fifth and final verse of the hymn invites all of creation to join in praising God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It calls for all voices to be raised in worship of the eternal Triune God.
Conclusion
Angels from the Realm of Glory is a timeless hymn that reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas. It calls us to come and worship the newborn King and to join with all of creation in praising God. This Christmas season, let us remember the message of the angels and the hope that is found in Jesus Christ.
