The Christ Hymn in 1 Timothy 3:16

As a preformed tradition, 1 Tim 3:16 has both creedal and hymnic characteristics. Structurally, the identification of three stanzas with two lines each best suits the antithetical parallelism of the hymn. Collectively, the hymn affirms Christ’s incarnation and exaltation. The parallel couplets express somewhat synonymous conceptions. Lines 1 and 2 speak of the revelation of Christ. Lines 3 and 4 express the proclamation of Christ. Lines 5 and 6 declare the reception of Christ.