Behold, He Comes, the Ruler of the Earth

“Behold, He Comes, the Ruler of the Earth” is a Christ-centered hymn written by Clarence M. Seamans, reflecting strong biblical themes of the second coming of Christ and His universal reign. The hymn draws its language and imagery directly from Scripture, presenting Jesus as the rightful King whose return will be visible, glorious, and authoritative.

The central theme of the hymn echoes Revelation 1:7, which proclaims that Christ will come with clouds and that every eye shall see Him. Seamans emphasizes the certainty of Christ’s return, not as a hidden or symbolic event, but as a decisive moment in history when the authority of earthly powers will give way to the eternal rule of the Son of Man. This theme is reinforced by Daniel 7:13-14, where Christ is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom that shall not pass away.

The hymn also reflects the teachings of Jesus Himself in Matthew 24:30, where the Son of Man appears in the heavens with power and great glory. Seamans presents this return as both a moment of awe and hope. For believers, Christ’s coming is not a cause for fear, but a fulfillment of God’s promises and the final triumph of righteousness.

Revelation 11:15 further shapes the hymn’s message by declaring that the kingdoms of this world have become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ. The hymn invites worshipers to lift their eyes beyond present circumstances and fix their hope on the coming reign of Christ, when justice, peace, and truth will be fully established.

“Behold, He Comes, the Ruler of the Earth” serves as both a song of anticipation and a confession of faith. It reminds the Church that history is moving toward a divinely appointed conclusion, and that Christ, not human rulers, holds ultimate authority. The hymn continues to encourage believers to live watchfully, faithfully, and confidently in light of the promised return of their King.