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Too often we rush through our worship sets focused on the newest songs, forgetting the power that lies in the great hymns of our faith. Crown Him with Many Crowns stands as one of the most majestic declarations of Christ’s sovereignty ever penned. Each verse paints a different portrait of our King – from the Lamb upon His throne to the Lord of heaven itself – creating a tapestry of praise that has lifted hearts heavenward for over 150 years.
Hymn History: Crown Him with Many Crowns
What happens when two men from opposing churches write verses for the same hymn? Something beautiful, as it turns out! Matthew Bridges began this story in 1851. A recent convert to Catholicism, Bridges felt moved to write verses celebrating the majesty of Christ – verses that would rise above denominational walls. His words caught the attention of Anglican minister Godfrey Thring, who, instead of writing a competing hymn, decided years later in 1868 to add his own verses to Bridges’ work. Their combined efforts gave us the masterpiece we sing today.
The music came along in 1868 when George Elvey composed DIADEMATA – a name that means “crowns” in Latin. Elvey’s triumphant melody matched the royal nature of the lyrics perfectly, giving wings to words that already soared. Today, this unlikely collaboration between Catholic and Anglican writers continues to unite believers in praise of their King!
Call to Worship
Need help finding the right words to introduce a hymn? Use this sample “Call to Worship” as a starting point, or let it inspire you to create your a heartfelt invitation to praise in your own words!
Today we join the endless worship of heaven itself! Every crown we place before Christ tells a different story of His majesty: His lordship over love, His triumph over death, His rule over heaven itself. The wounds in His hands and side – now glorified in beauty – remind us of the price of our salvation. As we lift our voices, we’re not just singing another song – we’re joining an eternal anthem that began before time and will continue through endless days!
Lead with Confidence
Looking for a way to blend ancient truth with modern passion? This hymn is your answer! Start softly with the first verse, letting the melody invite your congregation into the throne room. Then build the intensity with each verse as you increase intensity. The natural crescendo of the lyrics – from Christ’s sacrifice to His heavenly reign – gives you a perfect roadmap for dynamic worship. Consider sharing a brief story about one of the powerful images in the hymn before your worship set begins – it will help your congregation engage more deeply when they sing. Remember, you’re not just leading a song – you’re guiding your people into an encounter with their King!
Blending Suggestions
Try using Crown Him with Many Crowns in your worship set with these songs that fit thematically:
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King of Kings by Hillsong Worship flows naturally from the hymn’s royal imagery. Where Bridges and Thring paint pictures of Christ’s majesty, this modern anthem tells the story of how He gained His crown through sacrifice and victory. Try transitioning between them to show how Jesus’s kingship spans past, present, and future!
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Is He Worthy? by Andrew Peterson and Ben Shive asks the questions that Crown Him with Many Crowns answers. The back-and-forth of Is He Worthy? builds anticipation that finds its release in the hymn’s full-throated praise. Your congregation will feel the connection immediately!
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What a Beautiful Name by Hillsong Worship shares the hymn’s focus on Christ’s supremacy and glory. Moving from the intimacy of What a Beautiful Name to the majesty of Crown Him creates a powerful journey from personal worship to corporate declaration.
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Graves Into Gardens by Elevation Worship echoes the triumph over death celebrated in the hymn’s third verse. Both songs proclaim a victorious Savior who conquered the grave to bring us life. Link them together for a powerful testimony of resurrection power!