When the Trumpet of the Lord Shall Sound

 

A Hymn of Hope and Expectation

The beloved hymn "When the Trumpet of the Lord Shall Sound," also known as "When the Roll is Called Up Yonder," has resonated with countless believers since it was penned by James M. Black in 1893. This hymn vividly captures the Christian hope of the Second Coming of Christ and the joyous reunion with our Savior. Its powerful imagery and theological depth make it a timeless anthem of faith and anticipation.

The Hymn's Message

The central theme of this hymn is the return of Christ and the gathering of the faithful. The opening line, "When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound," references the biblical prophecy of a great trumpet blast that will herald the return of Jesus Christ. This event signifies the culmination of history and the fulfillment of God's promise to His people.

Biblical Cross-References

1. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (NIV)

    "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever."

   This passage directly correlates with the hymn's imagery of the trumpet sounding and the gathering of believers. It emphasizes the certainty and hope of being united with Christ and fellow believers for eternity.

2. 1 Corinthians 15:52 (NIV)

   "In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed."

   Here, Paul describes the transformative power of the last trumpet, signifying the resurrection and the glorification of believers. This transformation is a key aspect of the hope that "When the Roll is Called Up Yonder" conveys.

3. Revelation 11:15 (NIV)

   "The seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, which said: 'The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and he will reign for ever and ever.'"

   This verse from Revelation underscores the ultimate victory and eternal reign of Christ, themes that are echoed in the hymn's anticipation of Christ's return and the establishment of His everlasting kingdom.

The Joy of Reunion

The hymn also speaks to the joy and comfort found in the promise of reunion with loved ones who have gone before. The line, "When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore," evokes a powerful image of believers reunited in heaven, free from the sorrows and separations of this life.

The Call to Readiness

Another significant aspect of the hymn is its call to readiness. The refrain, "When the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there," is a personal declaration of faith and assurance. It reminds believers of the importance of living in a state of preparedness and faithfulness, echoing Jesus' exhortation in Matthew 24:44 (NIV):

 "So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."

Living in Hope and Expectation

"When the Trumpet of the Lord Shall Sound" encourages Christians to live in hopeful expectation of Christ's return. It is a reminder that, despite the challenges and uncertainties of life, we have a glorious future secured in Christ. As we sing this hymn, we affirm our faith in God's promises and our eager anticipation of the day when we will see our Savior face to face.

In conclusion, the hymn "When the Trumpet of the Lord Shall Sound" beautifully captures the essence of Christian hope and the promise of Christ's return. Through its rich biblical references and stirring message, it continues to inspire and uplift believers, reminding us of the glorious future that awaits us. As we reflect on the words of this hymn, may we find renewed strength and joy in the assurance of our Savior's imminent return.