The Comforter Has Come

The Comforter Has Come is a jubilant hymn written by Methodist minister Frank Bottome in 1890, rejoicing in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit as promised by Jesus. Rooted in the words of John 14:16, this hymn proclaims with bold assurance that the Comforter—the Holy Spirit—has come to dwell with and empower believers. It celebrates the fulfillment of Christ's promise to send His Spirit, marking the dawn of a new age for the Church and for every individual believer.

The opening line, “O spread the tidings ’round,” sets the tone for the hymn as one of proclamation and praise. The message is not meant to be kept in private worship but to be declared openly across every land and nation. Bottome’s call to “wherever man is found” makes clear that this is a universal message: the gift of the Holy Spirit is for all people who receive Christ. The hymn captures the joy and excitement of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the early Church, empowering them to witness with boldness and truth.

In each stanza, Bottome develops different aspects of the Spirit’s work. The Spirit is called the “long, long night is past,” suggesting that the coming of the Comforter has brought light after spiritual darkness. The Spirit lifts burdens, comforts the sorrowing, and brings the presence of Christ to dwell in human hearts. The hymn echoes Romans 5:5, where “the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”

The repeated refrain, “The Comforter has come!” builds emotional and theological emphasis, turning each stanza into a crescendo of celebration. The phrase underscores the reality that what had been promised in ages past is now a present experience for the Church. There is no waiting, no longing—the Spirit is here, indwelling every believer and empowering the Church to live in truth and love. The joy expressed is not just future hope, but present reality.

Musically, the hymn is often set to a strong, victorious tune that matches its triumphant tone. It is commonly used in revival meetings, Pentecost celebrations, and worship services where the work of the Holy Spirit is emphasized. Bottome’s text and its pairing with such a melody give it an anthemic quality, turning doctrinal truth into heartfelt worship.

Frank Bottome, though not widely known outside of hymn circles, gave the Church a powerful song that affirms both the doctrine and experience of the Holy Spirit’s indwelling. The Comforter Has Come continues to inspire Christians to recognize the nearness of God’s Spirit and to proclaim His presence boldly. It reminds the Church that the Spirit has not only come—but He remains, leading, comforting, and empowering the people of God today.