All for Christ I Have Forsaken
All for Christ I have forsaken
All for Christ I Have Forsaken is a hymn text by Erdmann Neumeister (1718) in 8.8.8.8.8.8 meter. Translated by August Crull. Found in lsb 753.
The hymn expresses the Lutheran understanding of discipleship as genuine commitment to Christ involving the surrender of worldly attachments and values. It reflects the evangelical call to faith that motivates ethical renunciation, central to Lutheran anthropology and soteriology.
History & Background
Erdmann Neumeister composed this hymn in 1718 as part of his extensive cantata libretto and hymnic output during the German Baroque period. The text was translated into English by August Crull in 1941 for use in American Lutheran hymnody.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 753
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Erdmann Neumeister (1671–1756), a Lutheran pastor and prolific hymn poet, this 1718 text embodies the Reformation's call to costly discipleship rooted not in fear but in the freedom Christ alone gives.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Lutheran paradox of Law and Gospel: the Law exposes our clinging to false securities; the Gospel liberates us to cheerful self-surrender as the only response worthy of Christ's person and work.
In the Church Year
Suggested in the three-year series
- Lent 2 (2×)
- Proper 24 (2×)
- Lent 5 (1×)
- Proper 17 (1×)
- Proper 7 (1×)
From LCMS Worship's published hymn suggestions, 2014–2026. The count is how many of those yearly lists suggested this hymn for that day.
Themes
discipleship and sacrifice Christian commitment renunciation of worldly goods Christ-centered faith spiritual devotion