Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers

Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers is a classic Advent hymn that calls the Church to joyful watchfulness in light of Christ’s promised return. Written by the Swedish Lutheran pastor and hymn writer Laurentius Laurenti in the seventeenth century, the hymn reflects a period of strong confessional theology and deep expectation of the Second Coming. Laurenti served as a bishop and was known for combining doctrinal clarity with warm devotional expression, qualities clearly evident in this hymn.

The opening call to rejoice is rooted not in present circumstances, but in future certainty. Believers are urged to lift up their hearts because redemption draws near. This theme aligns closely with Christ’s own teaching to remain awake and prepared, knowing that the Son of man will come at an hour when He is not expected. The hymn therefore balances joy with sobriety, encouraging hope without complacency.

Throughout the hymn, the imagery is rich with biblical anticipation. The Bridegroom language echoes Christ’s parables and the book of Revelation, portraying the Church as a waiting bride whose joy increases as the hour of meeting approaches. The lamps, watchfulness, and midnight cry all reinforce the call to spiritual readiness and faithful endurance.

Theologically, the hymn emphasizes assurance rather than fear. Christ’s coming is presented as comfort to His people, not terror. For believers, His return means the end of suffering, the fulfillment of promise, and the visible triumph of righteousness. This reflects the apostolic encouragement that Christians should comfort one another with the hope of the Lord’s appearing.

Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers has remained a treasured Advent hymn across centuries because it unites sound eschatology with heartfelt devotion. It prepares the Church to wait actively, joyfully, and faithfully, fixing its hope on Christ alone. The hymn reminds believers that true rejoicing flows from confident expectation, rooted in the unchanging promises of God.