Little Bethlehem of Judah

Versifier: Calvin Seerveld

Calvin Seerveld (b. 1930) was professor of aesthetics at the Institute for Christian Studies in Toronto from 1972 until he retired in 1995. Educated at Calvin College, Grand Rapids, Michigan; the University of Michigan; and the Free University of Amsterdam (Ph.D.), he also studied at Basel University in Switzerland, the University of Rome, and the University of Heidelberg. Seerveld began his career by teaching at Bellhaven College in Jackson, Mississippi (1958-1959), and at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights, Illinois (1959-1972). A fine Christian scholar, fluent in various biblical and modern languages, he is published widely in aesthetics, biblical studies, and philosophy. His books include Take Hold of God and Pull (1966), The Gr… Go to person page >

Scripture References:
st. 1 = Mic. 5:2
st. 2 = Mic. 5:3
st. 3 = Mic. 5:4

Micah 5:2-4 singles out Bethlehem as the source of the Messiah, the One whose rule would bring reconciliation and initiate the kingdom of God. Calvin Seerveld (PHH 22) paraphrased this passage in 1986 for the Psalter Hymnal.

Liturgical Use
Advent; service of Christmas lessons and carols.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook