What Makes a Good Hymn?

The Church's One Foundation

In this episode of Singing the Word, Laramie Minga and Matt Sikes explore one of the most theologically rich hymns in the Christian tradition: "The Church's One Foundation." Written in the mid-19th century during a time of intense doctrinal controversy, this hymn serves as a powerful exposition of the Apostle’s Creed and a beautiful defense of the "one holy catholic and apostolic church".

Holy, Holy, Holy: Why This Hymn Still Shapes the Church

In this episode of Singing the Word, Laramie Minga and Matt Sikes walk through one of the most beloved and enduring hymns of the Christian church: “Holy, Holy, Holy.” Though nearly universal in its use and familiarity, this hymn is far richer than many realize. Together, they trace the hymn’s biblical foundations in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4, highlight its deeply Trinitarian structure, and show how Reginald Heber’s text beautifully expresses God’s holiness, majesty, mercy, and perfection. They also explore why this beloved hymn has stood the test of time by examining its theology, poetry, and music, and how each works together to shape faithful worship.

What Makes a Good Hymn?

In this episode of Singing the Word: An Exposition of Hymnody, Matt Sikes and Laramie Minga ask a foundational question: What actually makes a good hymn? Rather than focusing on one specific hymn, this episode lays the groundwork for the entire series by exploring the essential qualities that have shaped faithful congregational song throughout church history.

Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending

In this episode of Singing the Word: An Exposition of Hymnody, Matt Sikes and Laramie Minga discuss “Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending,” a hymn that directs our attention beyond Christ’s birth to his promised return. They consider how its text and tune help the church sing with confidence as we wait for the coming King.

Singing the Word: An Exposition of Hymnody

In the debut episode, hosts Laramie Minga and Matt Sikes lay the foundation for Singing the Word: An Exposition of Hymnody. They share why this podcast exists, what makes hymnody worth studying, and how each future episode will explore a hymn’s history, theology, poetry, and musical setting. They also preview occasional special episodes on topics related to congregational song and the shaping of Christian worship.