Ye Christian Heralds, Go Proclaim

By Bourne H. Draper

Lyrics

1. Ye Christian heralds, go proclaim
salvation through Emmanuel's name!
to distant climes the tidings bear,
and plant the Rose of Sharon there.

2. God shield you with a wall of fire,
with flaming seal your breasts inspire,
bid raging winds their fury cease,
and hush the tempests into peace.

3. And when our labors all are o'er,
then we shall meet to part no more;
meet with the blood-bought throng to fall
and crown our Jesus Lord of all.

Bible Reference

Matthew 10:7; Luke 24:47; Acts 26:18

About This Hymn

"Ye Christian Heralds, Go Proclaim" is a missionary hymn composed by Bourne Hall Draper in 1805. Draper, born near Oxford, England, was educated at the Bristol Academy and served as a pastor in various locations, including Chipping Norton and Southampton. He passed away in 1843 Hymnary.

The hymn was first published in "Hymns Original & Select" in Portland, Maine, in 1805. It was later included in the Baptist Magazine in 1816, where it was presented as a complete poem beginning with "Sovereign of worlds, display Thy power." The hymn was subsequently divided into two parts, with the first part beginning as "Ye Christian heroes, go proclaim," and the second part starting with "And when our labors all are o'er" .

The text of the hymn emphasizes the call for Christians to spread the message of salvation through Emmanuel's name to distant lands. It also includes prayers for divine protection and inspiration for missionaries and expresses the hope of eternal reunion with fellow believers.

Musically, the hymn is commonly set to the tune "MISSIONARY CHANT," composed by Heinrich Christoph Zeuner in 1832. This tune complements the hymn's theme of missionary work and has been used in various hymnals, including "The Hymnbook" (1955 edition) and "Worship and Song" (1921 edition).

"Ye Christian Heralds, Go Proclaim" has been included in numerous hymnals and continues to be sung in Christian worship settings, particularly those focused on missions and evangelism. Its enduring presence underscores the importance of spreading the Christian message and supporting those who dedicate their lives to missionary work.