Lyrics
The version in The Hymn Book, 1971:
Behold, a stranger at the door!
He gently knocks, has knocked before,
has waited long, is waiting still:
we treat no other friend so ill.
If we will open, see, he stands
with loving heart and laden hands;
O matchless kindness! and he shows
this matchless kindness to his foes.
Admit Him, for the human breast
ne'er entertained so kind a guest;
no mortal tongue their joys can tell
with whom he condescends to dwell.
Sovereign of souls, thou Prince of Peace,
O may thy gentle reign increase:
throw wide the door, each willing mind;
and be his empire all mankind.
The version in Anglican Hymn Book, 1965:
Behold a stranger at the door!
He gently knocks, has knocked before,
has waited long, is waiting still:
you treat no other friend so ill.
Admit him, for the human breast
ne'er entertained so kind a guest;
no mortal tongue their joys can tell,
with whom he condescends to dwell.
Yet know, nor of the terms complain,
where Jesus comes, he comes to reign,
to reign, and with no partial sway;
thoughts must be slain that disobey.
Sovereign of souls, thou Prince of peace,
O may thy gentle reign increase:
throw wide the door, each willing mind;
and be his empire all mankind.
A longer, perhaps original version:
Behold, a Stranger at the door!
He gently knocks, has knocked before,
Has waited long, is waiting still:
You treat no other friend so ill.
O lovely attitude! He stands
With melting heart and laden hands;
O matchless kindness! and He shows
This matchless kindness to His foes.
But will He prove a Friend indeed?
He will; the very Friend you need;
The Friend of sinners yes, 'tis He,
With garments dyed on Calvary.
Rise, touched with gratitude divine;
Turn out His enemy and thine,
That soul destroying monster, sin,
And let the heavenly Stranger in.
Admit Him, for the human breast
Ne'er entertained so kind a Guest;
No mortal tongue their joys can tell
With whom He condescends to dwell.
Sovereign of souls, Thou Prince of Peace,
O may Thy gentle reign increase:
Throw wide the door, each willing mind;
And be His empire all mankind.