Before Thy Throne I Now Appear
Before Thy throne I now appear
This hymn embodies Lutheran emphasis on justification through Christ's merits alone and confidence in God's grace through prayer. It reflects the assurance of forgiveness through Christ's intercession, central to evangelical Lutheran theology.
History & Background
Originally composed in German by Gerhard Tersteegen as 'Vor dein Angesicht tret' ich hiermit hin' in the early 18th century. John Wesley translated it into English during his visit to Germany, and it became widely used in Methodist and Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 373
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 431
Translation
Bulletin Note
Penned by Pietist mystic Gerhard Tersteegen (1697–1769), this hymn exemplifies German evangelical devotion: confidence in God's grace, prayer as encounter with Christ's intercession, and the believer's access to the throne of grace.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Lutheran promise that sinners find righteous standing not through self-improvement but through Christ's finished work and present intercession—a sermon on justification by faith alone.
Themes
Confession of sin God's mercy Justification Assurance of faith Access to God through Christ