Christ by Heavenly Hosts Adored
Christ by heavenly hosts adored
This hymn expresses the Grundtvigian emphasis on the incarnation as central to Christian faith and the communal nature of worship, reflecting Lutheran emphasis on Christ's universal lordship and the participation of the Church Militant with the Church Triumphant. The text exemplifies Lutheran sacramental theology through its cosmic vision of Christ's redemptive work across all creation.
History & Background
Grundtvig composed this hymn in 1844 as part of his prolific Danish hymn-writing ministry, emphasizing the exaltation of Christ and the cosmic scope of redemption. The text was translated into English by Gracia Grindal in 1978, bringing this Grundtvigian masterpiece into North American Lutheran hymnody.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 740
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 341
- Lutheran Service Book — 549
- Lutheran Worship — 499
- With One Voice — 707
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Danish hymnologist Nikolai Grundtvig in 1844, this hymn embodies his theological legacy: the incarnation as central to Christian faith and the communion of Church Militant with Church Triumphant in worship.
Preaching Connection
This Grundtvigian hymn deepens proclamation by anchoring all Gospel proclamation in the Incarnation itself—the fundamental grace that makes salvation, sacrament, and community possible.
Themes
Christology Trinity Incarnation Worship Creation