From Depths of Woe, Lord God, I Cry
From depths of woe, Lord God, I cry
This hymn exemplifies Luther's understanding of justification by grace through faith, emphasizing the paradox of human sinfulness met by divine mercy. It expresses the Law-Gospel dialectic central to Lutheran theology, moving from conviction of sin to assurance of forgiveness in Christ.
History & Background
Luther's German original 'Aus tiefer Not schrei ich zu dir' was published in 1523 and became a cornerstone of Lutheran hymnody. Multiple English translations exist, with Gracia Grindal's 2006 version appearing in ELW and contemporary Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 295
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 295
- Lutheran Service Book — 608
- Lutheran Worship — 278
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 262
- With One Voice — 664
Translation
Bach Cantatas
- BWV 38: Out of deep need I cry to you (1724)
Bulletin Note
Written by Martin Luther in 1523, this German Reformation hymn (Aus tiefer Not) remains a classic expression of penitential faith grounded in justification by grace. Luther transforms psalm 130 into a confession of sin and assurance of pardon.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Law-Gospel movement Luther treasured: it lets the Law do its proper work of revealing sin's gravity before proclaiming the unconditional mercy of Christ that alone heals the guilty conscience.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From human despair and sinfulness (Law) through God's pardoning grace (Gospel) to confident hope in God's redemption
Themes
Repentance God's mercy and grace Forgiveness of sins Trust in God's compassion Justification by faith