Agnus Dei—I
O Lamb of God, most holy
This hymn expresses core Lutheran soteriology: Christ as the Lamb of God whose sacrifice removes sin and grants peace. It emphasizes both the objective reality of Christ's redemptive work and the subjective appropriation of mercy through faith.
History & Background
Martin Luther wrote this German litany-hymn (Christe, du Lamm Gottes) around 1528 based on the Latin Agnus Dei liturgical text. It became a central component of Lutheran Mass liturgies and has been translated into English multiple times for use in worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 962
Translation
Bulletin Note
Martin Luther, 1528. This hymn adapts the ancient liturgical Agnus Dei into vernacular song, making the mystery of Christ's redemptive sacrifice accessible to all believers. A cornerstone of Lutheran eucharistic piety.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes Lutheran soteriology: it confesses human sinfulness and need (the Law's work) while anchoring all hope in Christ's objective sacrifice and subjective gift of mercy (the Gospel's proclamation).
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law to Gospel: acknowledgment of universal sin, appeal to Christ's sacrificial work, petition for mercy and peace
Themes
Christ's sacrifice Redemption through Christ's blood Peace with God Penitence and forgiveness