Come, Christians, Join To Sing

By Christian H. Bateman

Lyrics

1. Come, Christians, join to sing,
Alleluia, Amen!
Loud praise to Christ our King,
Alleluia, Amen!
Let all with heart and voice
Before his throne rejoice;
Praise is his gracious choice;
Alleluia, Amen!

2. Come, lift your hearts on high;
Alleluia, Amen!
Let praises fill the sky;
Alleluia, Amen!
He is our Guide and Friend;
To us he'll condescend;
His love shall never end;
Alleluia, Amen!

3. Praise yet the Lord again;
Alleluia, Amen!
Life shall not end the strain;
Alleluia, Amen!
On Heaven's blissful shore
His goodness we'll adore,
Singing forever more,
Alleluia, Amen!

Bible Reference

Psalm 95:1; Revelation 19:4

About This Hymn

"Come, Christians, Join to Sing" is a hymn composed by Christian Henry Bateman in 1843. Originally titled "Come, Children, Join to Sing," the hymn was first published in the Scottish hymnbook Sacred Melodies for Sabbath Schools and Families. Bateman, a Moravian minister who later served in Congregational and Anglican churches, wrote this hymn as a joyful call to worship, particularly aimed at children.

The hymn's lyrics emphasize the act of singing praises to Christ our King, encouraging all to lift their hearts and voices in worship. The repeated refrain of "Alleluia! Amen!" underscores the joyful and affirming nature of the praise offered.

Musically, the hymn is commonly set to the tune "MADRID," a Spanish melody arranged by David Evans in 1927. This lively and rhythmic tune complements the hymn's theme of exuberant worship.

Over time, the hymn's title was changed to "Come, Christians, Join to Sing" to reflect its broader appeal beyond children's choirs. Today, it remains a popular choice in Christian worship services, celebrated for its simplicity, joyfulness, and call to communal praise.