Dear Lord to Thy True Servants Give
Dear Lord to Thy true servants give
The hymn exemplifies Lutheran comfort theology, presenting the crucified Christ as the source of consolation for the suffering Christian. It emphasizes both the law (acknowledgment of human weakness and affliction) and the gospel (Christ's redemptive suffering and God's merciful response).
History & Background
Martin Behm's German text was published in the early 17th century as a devotional hymn reflecting on Christ's passion and the comfort of the Gospel. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her 1863 collection, becoming standard in Lutheran hymnals including The Lutheran Hymnal.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 314
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 482
Translation
Bulletin Note
Martin Behm (1557–1622), German Lutheran theologian and hymn writer, composed this hymn during the turbulent Reformation era. It exemplifies Lutheran comfort theology, anchoring the suffering believer in Christ's cross.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies Lutheran comfort theology by showing how the proclamation of Christ's suffering and death directly addresses human affliction—the law exposes our weakness, and the gospel announces that our crucified Lord transforms our pain through his merciful presence.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Desire for adequate praise → Confession of human limitation → Universal call to glorify God
Themes
Christ's passion and suffering Trust in God's mercy Comfort in affliction Christian perseverance God's grace