Author: Venantius Fortunatus (540?-600?); John Mason Neale (1818-1866); Percy Dearmer (1867-1936) Meter: 8.8.8.8 Appears in 134 hymnals Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 Lyrics: 1 The royal banners forward go;
the cross shines forth in mystic glow;
where he, the Life, did flesh endure,
and by that death did life procure.
2 There while he hung, his sacred side
by soldier's spear was opened wide
to cleanse us in the precious flood
of water mingled with his blood.
3 Fulfilled is all his words foretold;
then spread the banners, and unfold
love's crowning power, that all may see
he reigns and triumphs from the tree.
4 O tree of grace, the conquering sign,
which dost in royal purple shine,
gone is thy shame; for, lo, each bough
proclaims the prince of glory now.
5 For once thy favoured branches bore
the wealth that did the world restore,
the priceless treasure, freely spent
to pay for our enfranchisement.
6 Father of all, life's source and spring,
may every soul thy praises sing;
may those obey the rule of heaven,
for whom the perfect life was given. Topics: Holy Week (Good Friday) Used With Tune: VEXILLA REGIS
The Royal Banners Forward Go