Christ is coming! Let creation Bid

“Christ Is Coming, Let Creation Bid” is a stirring hymn written by John R. MacDuff, a Scottish minister and devotional writer whose works were widely read during the nineteenth century. MacDuff had a gift for combining strong biblical themes with poetic language that lifted the heart toward heaven. This hymn reflects his deep conviction that the return of Christ is not only a central doctrine of the Christian faith but a source of hope, joy, and holy anticipation for believers. Through vivid imagery drawn from Scripture, MacDuff calls the entire creation to raise its voice in expectation of the glorious return of the Savior.

The hymn is strongly rooted in passages from Revelation, where the coming of Christ is proclaimed with certainty and power. MacDuff echoes the cry of Revelation twenty two, in which the Lord declares, “Behold, I come quickly,” and the church responds with longing for His appearing. The hymn also reflects the promise given by the angels in Acts chapter one, assuring the disciples that the same Jesus who ascended into heaven will return in glory. MacDuff touches this theme with poetic richness, inviting creation itself to join in the announcement that Christ will come again to reign with justice, mercy, and everlasting righteousness.

Throughout the hymn, the author presents the second coming not as a cause for fear among believers, but as a moment of triumph and restoration. He portrays the return of Christ as the fulfillment of every promise, the end of sorrow, and the beginning of eternal joy. The text encourages worshipers to lift their eyes beyond the troubles of the present world and to remember that history is moving toward the perfect kingdom of Christ.

The structure of the hymn is both majestic and reverent, balancing the grandeur of Christ’s return with the tender assurance that His people will be gathered to Him. The melody traditionally paired with the hymn enhances this tone, giving congregations the opportunity to sing with confidence and hope. “Christ Is Coming, Let Creation Bid” remains a cherished hymn because it strengthens the church’s longing for the Lord and fills the believer with steadfast assurance that Christ, the risen and exalted King, will return in glory to make all things new.