1 In Judah’s rugged wilderness,
Where Jordan rolls his flood,
In manners strict, and rude in dress,
The holy Baptist stood.

2 And while upon the river’s side
The people thronged to hear,
"Repent," the sacred preacher cried;
"The heavenly kingdom’s near."

3 Now Jesus to the stream descends;
His feet the waters lave;
And o’er His head, that humbly bends,
The Baptist pours the wave.

4 When lo! a heavenly form appears,
Descending as a dove;
And wondrous sounds th’assembly hears,
Proclaiming from above—

5 "This is My well belovèd Son;
On Him My Spirit rests;
Now is His reign of grace begun;
Attend His high behests."

6 The sacred voice has reached our ear,
And still through distant lands
Shall sound, till all His name revere,
And honor His commands.