This hymn is often called the "National Anthem of Christendom." The lyrics were written by Edward Perronet in 1779 and are based on Philippians 2:11. The song has been set to several tunes. The most popular tune used is "Coronation" (Oliver Holden, 1793). However, it has also been set to "Miles Lane" (William Shrubsole, 1779) and "Diadem" (James Ellor, 1838). This version contains excerpts from the "Hallelujah Chorus" (Handel). A number of modifications have been made from the original text. The original hymn text dates from 1779 and 1780, and was first printed in November 1779 in the Gospel Magazine, a publication by “Rock of Ages” composer Augustus M. Toplady. An eight-stanza version appeared just a year later in the same magazine titled, “On the Resurrection. The Lord is King.” Perronet (1726-1792) was born in Sundridge, England, and died in Canterbury. His family came from the Huguenots of Switzerland, and according to The UM Hymnal editor Carlton Young, “was closely associated with and esteemed by the Wesleys.” Against the desires of John Wesley, Perronet promoted the idea that Methodist preachers should be able to administer the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. In another controversial act, Perronet published a satire on the Church of England, The Mitre, angering the Countess of Huntingdon in whose chapel he served. As a result, he left to become a minister in the independent chapel in Canterbury.