Christ Is Made The Sure Foundation

By J. M. Neale

Lyrics

1. Christ is made the sure foundation,
Christ the head and cornerstone,
chosen of the Lord, and precious,
binding all the church in one,
holy Zion's help forever,
and her confidence alone.

2. All that dedicated city,
dearly loved of God on high,
in exultant jubilation
pours perpetual melody,
God the One in Three adoring
in glad hymns eternally.

3. To this temple, where we call You,
come, O Lord of Hosts, today;
with accustomed lovingkindness,
hear Your servants as they pray;
and Your fullest benediction
shed within its walls alway.

4. Lord, here grant to all Your servants
what they ask of You to gain,
what they gain from You, forever
with the blessed to retain,
and hereafter in Your glory
evermore with You to reign.

5. Praise and honor to the Father,
praise and honor to the Son,
praise and honor to the Spirit,
ever Three, and ever One,
one in might, and one in glory,
while unending ages run.

Bible Reference

Ephesians 2:20–22; 1 Peter 2:4–7

About This Hymn

"Christ Is Made the Sure Foundation" is a hymn composed by John Mason Neale in 1851. Neale, a prominent English hymnologist and translator, rendered this hymn from the Latin text "Urbs beata Jerusalem," which dates back to the 7th or 8th century. The hymn emphasizes the foundational role of Christ in the Church, portraying Him as the cornerstone upon which the Church is built.

The hymn is set to the tune "Westminster Abbey," composed by Henry Purcell, and follows a meter of 8.7.8.7.8.7. This melody complements the hymn's solemn and reverent tone, making it suitable for occasions such as church dedications and celebrations of the Church's unity.

"Christ Is Made the Sure Foundation" has been included in various hymnals, reflecting its enduring popularity. It continues to be sung in Christian worship settings, particularly those focused on the Church's foundation and unity in Christ.