“Christ is Made the Sure Foundation” was translated into English by John Neale in 1851. The hymn, Urbs beata Jerusalem, was originally written in Latin back in the 6-7th century for a church dedication.
John Neale is lauded for his contributions to church hymnody. He was one of the first to translate ancient Greek and Latin texts into metrical English for singing. Neale was ordained at the Church of England in 1842, but spent the last 20 years of his life serving poor men in society, later including indigent women and orphans.
This anthem is packed with rich biblical truths drawn from Ephesians 2 and 1 Peter 2.
Verse 1 pictures Christ, the Cornerstone, the foundation and head of the Church. We are the church whom He binds in unity.
Paul said: Through [Christ], we have access in one Spirit to the Father. So you are no longer strangers or aliens, but fellow citizens, saints and members of God’s household. Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus is the cornerstone. Joined together, we grow into a holy temple in the Lord. In Christ, you are being built into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
Peter wrote: As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For it was written, “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.” So the honor is for you who believe…
Verse 2 describes the victorious church in heaven giving praise to the Triune God in eternal jubilation. These stanzas call us to unending worship from now on earth until we reach heaven.
Reflect: Do I believe that my God is praiseworthy and trustworthy? Am I truly united in spirit with the body of Christ? With Jesus as my sure foundation, how can I remember to not be shaken by things of earth?
Verse 3 shifts focus to the earthly gathering, praying that the Lord enter the physical temple and bless it with loving-kindness. Verse 4 asks for spiritual gifts upon believers during their earthly service, with the promise of reigning with Christ in glory.
These 2 stanzas become the invocation: that God be pleased and honored in my worship. It reminds me of Solomon’s prayer during his temple dedication. He asked God to be present, to hear and answer the prayers offered in His holy place.
Let me do a heart check: What is the posture of my heart as I open my mouth to sing? Do I see the One I worship? Can I hear His call for me? Is my worship 24×7?
Dear Heavenly Father, you are holy and you are worthy. Purify my heart and cleanse my lips to worship you in spirit and in truth. Cover me with your blood, Jesus, so I will be a worthy vessel of your grace. Holy Spirit, let me experience you in all I say and do. Help me to sing joined with your spirit. May my praise honor you. May my life be a holy sacrifice of praise. In the name of our dear Savior, Amen.
