For Perfect Love So Freely Spent
For perfect love so freely spent
This hymn emphasizes the centrality of Christ's atoning sacrifice in Lutheran soteriology, reflecting the Reformation's emphasis on Christ's perfect work of redemption. The text articulates the Lutheran understanding that Christ's love demands a responsive faith that transforms Christian living.
History & Background
Written by Timothy Dudley-Smith in 1984 as a contemporary hymn reflecting on Christ's atoning sacrifice and its demands on Christian discipleship. First appeared in Lutheran Book of Worship (1978) and has been included in subsequent Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 720
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 216
Bulletin Note
Written in 1984 by hymnologist Timothy Dudley-Smith, this L.M. text wed to KING'S WESTON reflects twentieth-century Anglican hymnody's return to Reformation theology—emphasizing Christ's atoning love as both complete gift and catalyst for faithful living.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the movement from Gospel to responsive obedience, making it ideal for sermons on justification and sanctification, or on how Christ's finished work becomes the foundation for the believer's daily consecration.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Second Article (Concerning Redemption) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christ's cosmic supremacy (Philippians 2:9-11): universal submission to His Name, His humiliation and exaltation, His present reign, and creation's responsive obedience
Themes
Christ's sacrificial love Redemption through Christ Christian response and commitment Grace and salvation