His Robes for Mine

His Robes for Mine is a devotional hymn by Chris Anderson that celebrates the imputed righteousness of Christ and the believer’s secure position in Him. The hymn emphasizes the exchange central to the gospel: Christ’s perfect righteousness is credited to the believer, while the believer’s sin is borne by Him. This imagery of robes reflects biblical metaphors of purity, justification, and sanctification, particularly found in Isaiah 61:10 and Revelation 7:9-14, where the saints are clothed in white garments, symbolizing the righteousness of Christ.

The text focuses on the believer’s joy and gratitude for this divine exchange. Anderson highlights that it is by grace alone, through faith, that these robes are received, echoing Galatians 3:27 and Romans 13:14. There is no human merit in the transaction; it is a gift of God’s mercy, fully grounded in the work of Christ on the cross. The hymn invites the worshiper to contemplate both the humility required to receive such grace and the awe of being adorned in Christ’s righteousness.

Another central theme is hope and assurance. The hymn presents the clothing of Christ’s righteousness not only as a present blessing but also as a guarantee of eternal security. The imagery of robes evokes the final scene of redemption, when believers are presented before God, fully accepted, and fully transformed. This gives the hymn a strong eschatological dimension, linking present faith to future glory.

The hymn also encourages a life of gratitude and devotion. By recognizing the gift of Christ’s righteousness, believers are called to live in obedience, love, and holy conduct, reflecting the transformation that has already begun. It teaches that the gospel is not merely theoretical but produces real change in character and conduct.

His Robes for Mine continues to be used in congregational worship, personal devotion, and communion services, offering both doctrinal richness and emotional resonance. Its enduring appeal lies in its clear presentation of justification by faith, its vivid metaphorical language, and its capacity to deepen the believer’s appreciation of Christ’s redeeming work.

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