Wherefore do the nations wage

Verse 1

Wherefore do the nations wage War against the King of kings? Whence the people’s maddening rage, Fraught with vain imaginings?

Verse 2

Haughty chiefs and rulers proud Forth in banded fury run, Braving, with defiance loud, God and His anointed Son.

Verse 3

"Let us break their bonds in twain! Let us cast their cords away!" But the Highest with disdain Sees and mocks their vain array.

Verse 4

"High on Zion I prepare" (Thus He speaks) "a regal throne; Thou, My Prince, My chosen heir, Rise to claim it as Thine own!"

Verse 5

"Son of God, with God the same, Enter Thine imperial dome! Lo! the shaking heav’ns proclaim, Mightiest Lord, Thy kingdom come.

Verse 6

"Pomp or state dost Thou demand? In Thy Father’s glory shine! Dost Thou ask for high command? Lo! the universe is Thine!"

Verse 7

Ye who spurn His righteous sway, Yet, ah yet, He spares your breath; Yet His hand, averse to slay, Balances the bolt of death.

Verse 8

Ere that dreadful bolt descends, Haste before His feet to fall, Kiss the scepter He extends, And adore Him, Lord of all!