Majestic sweetness sits enthroned - Lyrics

1. Majestic sweetness sits enthroned
upon the Savior's brow;
His head with radiant glories crowned,
His lips with grace o'erflow,
His lips with grace o'erflow.

2. No mortal can with Him compare,
among the sons of men;
fairer is He than all the fair
who fill the heav'nly train,
who fill the heav'nly train.

3. He saw me plunged in deep distress,
and flew to my relief;
for me He bore the shameful cross,
and carried all my grief,
and carried all my grief.

4. To Him I owe my life and breath,
and all the joys I have;
He makes me triumph over death,
and saves me from the grave,
and saves me from the grave.

"Majestic Sweetness Sits Enthroned" is a deeply reverent hymn that portrays the beauty, grace, and compassion of Jesus Christ. Written by Samuel Stennett in the 18th century, the hymn captures a worshipful vision of Christ as both regal and tender. Stennett, a prominent English Baptist pastor and hymn writer, penned these words as a meditation on the excellence of Christ's character and the joy of knowing Him personally. The language is elevated, poetic, and rich with imagery, reflecting the spiritual depth of its author.

The opening line, “Majestic sweetness sits enthroned upon the Savior’s brow,” sets the tone for the entire hymn—Jesus is pictured not only as a king but as one whose rule is marked by gentleness and love. This hymn doesn't focus on the suffering of Christ, as many others do, but instead on His incomparable beauty and kindness. Each verse builds on this image, describing Christ as more fair than all others, with a voice and presence that draw the soul in worship and adoration.

Stennett also includes deeply personal language in the later verses, turning from admiration to testimony. The singer reflects on how Christ saw him in a state of ruin and extended mercy: “He saw me plunged in deep distress and flew to my relief.” This personal rescue becomes a cause for lasting praise and devotion. The hymn’s flow from exaltation to intimate salvation is one of its most compelling features, blending doctrine with heartfelt experience.

The hymn has been set to several tunes over the years, most notably the tune Ortonville, which complements the gentle dignity of the text. “Majestic Sweetness Sits Enthroned” continues to resonate with worshippers for its combination of poetic language and warm devotion. It serves not only as a declaration of Christ’s glory but as an invitation to gaze upon Him with awe and gratitude—a song that stirs both the mind and heart in worship.