Brothers, Sisters, Let Us Gladly
Brothers, sisters, let us gladly
This hymn embodies Grundtvig's conviction that Christian faith is a communal act of conscious choice and commitment, rooted in the living Word and apostolic witness rather than mere tradition. The text reflects Lutheran emphasis on the congregation as the bearer of authentic Christian life and the necessity of personal decision within corporate faith.
History & Background
Written by Danish bishop Nikolai Grundtvig in 1817 as part of his hymnic renewal of Danish Lutheran worship. First published in Danish hymnals and subsequently translated into English by Gracia Grindal in 1978, becoming widely used in North American Lutheran congregations.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 689
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 335
- Lutheran Service Book — 579
- Lutheran Worship — 430
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Danish bishop Nikolai Grundtvig in 1817, this hymn reflects his conviction that living Christian faith belongs to the congregation as a conscious, communal act rooted in apostolic witness and the living Word.
Preaching Connection
This hymn anchors the Gospel proclamation in the reality of the gathered, witnessing community—showing how God's gracious call elicits not passive assent but active, joyful commitment expressed in the communion of saints.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Baptism Small Catechism — Holy Baptism
Themes
Christian discipleship Communal faith Choosing Christ Church unity Joyful witness