Christ, the Sure and Steady Anchor
Christ, the sure and steady anchor
The hymn employs the metaphor of Christ as an anchor (Hebrews 6:19) to express Lutheran confidence in Christ's vicarious atonement and the assurance of salvation through faith alone. It reflects the Lutheran emphasis on Christ's steadfastness as the foundation of Christian hope amid life's trials.
History & Background
Timothy Dudley-Smith composed this hymn in 2012, drawing on the biblical imagery of Christ as the anchor of believers' souls. The text appeared in contemporary hymnals including Evangelical Lutheran Worship and Lutheran Service Book.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 779
- Lutheran Service Book — 566
Bulletin Note
Composed by Timothy Dudley-Smith in 2012, this hymn draws on Hebrews 6:19 to anchor Christian hope in Christ's vicarious atonement, expressing Lutheran assurance of salvation through faith in His steadfastness alone.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran proclamation that Christ's constancy—not our wavering faith—is the ground of salvation, transforming anxiety into Gospel confidence.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Baptism Small Catechism — Holy Baptism
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Themes
Christ as anchor Steadfastness in faith Trust in storms Assurance in Christ