This week in Christian history: ‘Rise Up, O Men of God’ published; Adoniram Judson sets sail

'Rise up, O Men of God' first published – Feb. 16, 1911

This week marks the anniversary of the hymn “Rise Up, O Men of God” first appearing in print, as a poem in the literary publication The Continent.

Authored by Presbyterian clergyman William Pierson Merrill, it would be published as a hymn the following year in The Pilgrim Hymnal, with a tune composed by William Henry Walter.

The song became very popular in Protestant American churches during the 20th century, though its gender-specific title and lyrics have contributed to its decline in recent years.

“The stirring anthem unapologetically and unabashedly encourages men to stand up and serve,” wrote Paul Batura of The Daily Citizen, a Focus on the Family publication, in 2023.

“When it comes to evangelizing and discipling, singing alone won’t get the job done, but churches and Christians who take the time and expend the resources to develop and mentor boys and men are faithfully serving well beyond the individuals themselves.”