1 Spread, O spread the joyful tidings,
Of salvation full and free;
Till throughout the wide creation,
Men are set at liberty.
Chorus:
Spread the news, joyful news
Shout, O shout the tidings forth.
Spread the news, joyful news,
Our King comes back to earth.
2 Spread, O spread the joyful tidings,
Tell the news o'er land and sea;
Till each fallen son of Adam,
Is from sin and guilt made free. [Chorus]
3 Spread, O spread the joyful tidings,
That our Master comes again;
Eternal life will be our portion,
If we have no spot or stain. [Chorus]
4 Spread, O spread the joyful tidings,
Lo! He in the cloud draws near;
To his watching, waiting children,
Who his coming hold so dear. [Chorus]
5 Spread, O spread the joyful tidings,
For the choirs of heaven ring;
Singing in triumphant measure,
Hail, all hail, returning King. [Chorus]
6 Spread, O spread the joyful tidings,
That the Saviour comes to reign;
He is faithful to his promise,
"I will surely come again." [Chorus]
Source: The Golden Sheaf: a collection of choice hymns and songs especially designed for Sunday schools, loyal worker's meetings, prayer and social services (Enl. ed.) #113