God the Omnipotent

“God the Omnipotent” is a hymn of majestic praise written by Henry Fothergill Chorley in 1842. The text is closely associated with the tune Russian Hymn, which gives the hymn its triumphant and stately character. Chorley’s words call the congregation to exult in the sovereign power and glory of God, presenting worship as a bold and joyful proclamation of divine kingship.

The hymn emphasizes God’s absolute rule over all creation. Drawing on biblical images of God reigning in majesty, it declares His strength, holiness, and eternal authority. The repeated calls to praise reflect the heavenly worship described in Scripture, where God’s sovereignty evokes continual adoration. The language invites believers to lift their voices in united acclaim of God’s greatness.

A strong theme of the hymn is confidence in God’s reign. By affirming that God is omnipotent, the hymn reassures worshipers that no force can rival or overthrow His rule. This confession encourages trust and reverence, especially in times when earthly powers appear dominant or unstable. God’s kingdom is presented as enduring and righteous, worthy of unwavering allegiance.

The hymn also expresses a sense of joy and celebration. Praise is not portrayed as subdued or hesitant, but as a glad response to God’s glory. The strong, declarative phrases reflect the biblical pattern of worship that celebrates who God is and what He has done. This makes the hymn especially effective for festival services and occasions of corporate praise.

“God the Omnipotent” has endured because it offers the church a powerful declaration of faith in God’s sovereign reign. Its combination of biblical imagery, confident theology, and musical grandeur continues to inspire worshipers to exalt the Lord who reigns forever in majesty and power.