Very few people know that the Christmas hymn favorite "Joy to the World" was not written for Christmas at all.
Isaac Watts wrote "Joy to the World" in imitation of Psalm 98. The psalm is about the Messiah who comes in glory, righteousness, and victory over evil, to judge the world and comfort the faithful. In other words, Watts meant "Joy to the World" as a spiritual reflection on Christ's soon-to-be, expected, triumphant return to earth. This book explores this theme and other writings of Watts, as a way of preparing our hearts for the wonder and holiness of Christmas morning.
Isaac Watts is recognised as the "Father of English Hymnody", as he was the first prolific and popular English hymnwriter, credited with some 750 hymns. Many of his hymns remain in active use today and have been translated into many languages.
His education led him to the pastorate of a large Independent Chapel in London, and he also found himself in the position of helping trainee preachers, despite poor health. Taking work as a private tutor, he lived with the non-conformist Hartopp family at Fleetwood House, Abney Park in Stoke Newington, and later in the household of Sir Thomas Abney and Lady Mary Abney at Theobalds, Cheshunt, in Hertfordshire, and at their second residence, Abney House, Stoke Newington.
Though a non-conformist, Sir Thomas practised occasional conformity to the Church of England as necessitated by his being Lord Mayor of London 1700-01. Likewise, Isaac Watts held religious opinions that were more non-denominational or ecumenical than was at that time common for a non-conformist, having a greater interest in promoting education and scholarship, than preaching for any particular ministry.
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