Almighty Father, Bless the Word
Almighty Father, bless the Word
This hymn reflects Lutheran emphasis on the power of the preached Word of God to accomplish God's purposes in human hearts and the world. It echoes the Reformation conviction that the Gospel, when faithfully proclaimed, bears fruit through the Holy Spirit's work, not human effort alone.
History & Background
Written by N.F.S. Grundtvig in 1837 for the Danish church, this hymn expresses confidence in God's power working through the preached Word. It was translated into English by Gracia Grindal in 1978 and has become a significant addition to Lutheran hymnody emphasizing Word-centered worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 923
- Lutheran Worship — 216
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 52
Translation
Bulletin Note
Nicolai Grundtvig (1783–1872), a Danish Lutheran pastor and hymnwriter, penned this 1837 hymn as a testimony to the Reformation conviction that God's Word, faithfully proclaimed and blessed by the Spirit, bears fruit without human addition or merit.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Reformation principle that the preached Gospel, by the Spirit's power alone, accomplishes what human effort cannot—use it to reinforce the gracious sufficiency of Christ's Word over legalism or activism.
Themes
Word of God Spiritual growth Gospel proclamation Divine power Faithful sowing