Through countless ages, many men (Hymn 1093)

Verse 1: Through countless ages, many men Have longed and sought and tried to see The secret of the universe, So vast, so great a mystery. Verse 2: Yet not through struggling could frail man The secret of this myst'ry find; Nor chance, by stumbling, come upon Such hidden things—to these he's blind. Verse 3: Behold in heav'n a throne is set, And One upon the throne revealed; And held in His right hand a scroll— The mystery is tightly sealed. Verse 4: Through all the universe, a cry— 'Can one be found of such great worth The scroll to take?' ... yet no reply, From heav'n, below, or on the earth. Verse 5: Were it a matter now for man By chance, or some ability, Then surely one would now step forth To open God's economy. Verse 6: Yet sad and solemn was that sight. John wept as then he looked around; And we, too, still might weeping be If none at all were worthy found. Verse 7: But then the angel said, 'Weep not! Behold, the Lion has prevailed To take the scroll and loose its seals; He has the mystery now unveiled!' Verse 8: So, John looked up the Lion to see, But, lo, he then beheld a Lamb; Christ both o'ercame the enemy, And wrought redemption's work for man. Verse 9: The angels fall before His throne, Four living creatures offer praise, All glory to the Lion-Lamb; Let us with theirs our voices raise!