Christians Sing Out with Exultation
Christians, sing out with exultation
The hymn embodies the Lutheran affirmation of Christ's full humanity and divinity in the Incarnation, countering Docetic heresies by celebrating that God truly became flesh. It reflects the joyful confidence of Lutheran Christology and the centrality of Christ's person to Christian faith and worship.
History & Background
This German hymn by Martin Behm was published in early 17th century Lutheran hymnody, celebrating the Incarnation with joyful affirmation of Christ's coming in flesh. August Crull translated it into English for American Lutheran hymnals in the mid-20th century.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 298
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 100
Translation
Bulletin Note
Martin Behm (1610) wrote this triumphant affirmation of Christ's full humanity and divinity against Docetic heresies denying Christ took true flesh. A cornerstone of Lutheran Christmas theology.
Preaching Connection
This hymn anchors proclamation of Christ's Incarnation by countering every impulse to diminish either His divinity or humanity, making it an ideal sung response to Gospel passages revealing Jesus as the Word made flesh.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christ's Lenten self-denial models our repentance; His victory over Satan empowers our spiritual triumph; His presence sustains us through suffering toward Easter joy and eternal paradise.
Themes
Incarnation Joy and praise Christ's victory Christological affirmation