Farewell I Gladly Bid Thee
Farewell I gladly bid thee
The hymn expresses confident Lutheran faith in Christ's promises regarding eternal life and the communion of saints, reflecting comfort in mortality through resurrection hope. It embodies the Lutheran emphasis on justification by faith and the certainty of salvation through Christ's name written in the Book of Life.
History & Background
Martin Behm's German hymn 'Herzlich taut mich Verlangen' was published in 1602 and became a significant Lutheran funeral hymn. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in 1869 and became standard in English Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 298
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 407
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Martin Behm in 1602, this German funeral hymn reflects deep Lutheran confidence in justification by faith and the resurrection hope. Its tune, Herzlich taut mich verlangen, carries both lament and triumph.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms grief into gospel proclamation: the Law of death meets the Gospel of Christ's risen promise, assuring believers that separation on earth cannot break the bond secured by grace and written in heaven's register.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Third Article (Concerning Sanctification) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Themes
Death and dying Trust in Christ Eternal life Separation from worldly cares Heavenly hope