Christ the Lord is risen today

“He is not here: for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.” — Matthew 28:6 (KJV)

The first Wesleyan chapel established in London, England, was an abandoned iron foundry, which became known as the Foundry Meeting House. It was in this very place, during the inaugural service in 1739—just one year after Charles Wesley’s profound conversion experience at Aldersgate—that he introduced a hymn specifically written for the occasion. This powerful resurrection hymn was originally titled “Hymn for Easter Day” and featured eleven stanzas, each consisting of four lines. It was first published in The Foundry’s Collection, a hymnal that contained “hymns set to music as they are commonly sung at the Foundry,” along with a supplementary collection of Psalms. The volume included approximately fifty hymns and reflected the vibrant worship style of the early Methodist movement.

The enduring popularity of this hymn owes much to the triumphant and uplifting tune with which it has long been associated. Though the composer of the melody remains unknown, the tune first appeared anonymously in the 1708 hymnal Lyra Davidica, published in London. The exuberant “Alleluia” that concludes each line of the hymn was not penned by Wesley himself but was later added by an editor to suit the rhythm and joyful nature of the tune. The term “Hallelujah” or “Alleluia,” drawn from ancient Hebrew worship, was a common expression of praise among early Christians. Church Father Jerome, who translated the Bible into Latin and died around A.D. 420, wrote that in his time, the very ceilings of Christian worship halls would tremble from the resounding “Hallelujahs” as congregants lifted their voices in praise.

Charles Wesley, one of the most prolific and influential hymn writers in Christian history, composed many other cherished hymns besides this Easter anthem. Among his most beloved works are “Jesus, Lover of My Soul,” “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing,” “A Charge to Keep I Have,” “Depth of Mercy,” and the iconic Christmas hymn “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” His hymns have transcended centuries, continuing to inspire worshippers with their theological richness, poetic depth, and heartfelt devotion. This particular Easter hymn stands as a vibrant declaration of the risen Christ, echoing the angelic message from the empty tomb and inviting believers across generations to rejoice in the victory of the Resurrection.