Faith and Truth and Life Bestowing
Faith and truth and life bestowing
The hymn reflects Grundtvig's theology of the Word as a living, faith-creating power that produces transformation in believers, aligning with Lutheran emphasis on Gospel proclamation. It celebrates how the Word works through the parable of the sower to generate genuine faith and spiritual fruitfulness.
History & Background
Grundtvig composed this hymn in Danish as 'Tro og Sandhed og det Liv' in 1837, reflecting his emphasis on the living Word and apostolic faith. Gracia Grindal provided the English translation for Lutheran Book of Worship's successor publications in 1989.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 584
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Danish theologian Nicolai Grundtvig in 1837, this hymn reflects his revolutionary theology of the Word as a living, faith-creating power. It captures the parable of the sower, celebrating how Gospel proclamation transforms receptive hearts.
Preaching Connection
This Grundtvig hymn embodies the Lutheran conviction that the Word itself—not our effort or worthiness—creates faith and produces spiritual fruit, making it a powerful companion to any sermon emphasizing the Gospel's efficacy over human merit.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christ as the fulfillment of prophetic hope, incarnate Word bringing salvation, evoking eternal praise and trinitarian unity
Themes
Word of God Gospel proclamation Spiritual growth Parable of the Sower Faith formation