As Men of Old Their Firstfruits Brought
As men of old their firstfruits brought
The hymn embodies Lutheran teaching on vocation and stewardship, affirming that all gifts come from God and should be returned to Him in gratitude and service. It connects Old Testament worship practices with New Testament discipleship, emphasizing that Christian giving flows from recognition of divine grace.
History & Background
Written by Frank von Christierson in 1961, this hymn was first published in hymnal supplements and became widely adopted in Lutheran worship as a stewardship hymn. It reflects mid-20th century Lutheran emphasis on proportional giving and the consecration of material resources.
Hymnal Appearances
- Chalice Hymnal — 382
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 691
- Glory to God — 708
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 404
- Lutheran Worship — 485
Bulletin Note
Written by Frank von Christierson in 1961, this hymn recovers the Old Testament practice of firstfruits as a model for Christian stewardship, grounding generosity in the doctrine that all gifts originate in God's grace.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies Law's call to grateful return and Gospel's gift of willing, joyful offering—showing how recognition of God's redeeming love transforms obligation into liberation.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From contemplation of Christ's humble birth in obscurity to personal invitation for Christ's transformative indwelling; movement from historical event to soteriological application
Themes
Stewardship and Christian giving Gratitude for God's blessings Consecration of earthly possessions Living as disciples