The Lutheran Hymnal ‎#103

103. To Shepherds as They Watched by Night

1 To shepherds as they watched by night
Appeared a host of angels bright;
Behold the tender Babe, they said,
In yonder lowly manger laid.

2 At Bethlehem, in David's town,
As Micah did of old make known;
'Tis Jesus Christ, your Lord and King,
Who doth to all salvation bring.

3 Oh, then rejoice that thro' His Son
God is with sinners now at one;
Made like yourselves of flesh and blood,
Your brother is th'eternal God.

4 What harm can sin and death then do?
The true God now abides with you.
Let hell and Satan rage and chafe,
Christ is your Brother--ye are safe.

5 Not one He will or can forsake
Who Him his confidence doth make.
Let all his wiles the Tempter try,
You may his utmost powers defy.

6 Ye shall and must at last prevail;
God's own ye are, ye cannot fail.
To God forever sing your praise
With joy and patience all your days.

Amen.

Text Information

• First Line: To shepherds as they watched by night
• Title: To Shepherds as They Watched by Night
• German Title: Vom himmel kam der Engle Schar
• Translator: Richard Massie (1854, alt.)
• Author: Martin Luther (1543)
• Meter: L.M.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1941
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:10-11
• Topic: The Church Year: Christmas

Tune Information

• Name: PUER NOBIS NASCITUR
• Meter: L.M.
• Key: E♭ Major
• Source: "Musae Sioniae," VI, 1609