Glory Be to God the Father
Glory be to God the Father
The hymn embodies the Lutheran emphasis on the triune God as the center of all worship and the source of salvation through Christ's redemptive work. Its doxological structure reflects the Reformation recovery of congregational hymnody as essential to corporate worship.
History & Background
Written by Nikolai Grundtvig in 1817 as part of his prolific hymn-writing ministry in Denmark. The hymn was translated into English by Peer Ø. Strømme and has become a standard Easter and general praise hymn in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 841
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 167
- Lutheran Service Book — 506
- Lutheran Worship — 173
- Trinity Hymnal — 164
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 244
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Nikolai Grundtvig (1783–1872), Denmark's foremost hymnodist and Lutheran theologian, this hymn recovers congregational song as essential worship. Grundtvig championed the living Word and sacramental faith.
Preaching Connection
This hymn's movement from human unworthiness to confident praise in Christ's redemption embodies the Law-Gospel proclamation, making it a powerful congregational echo of the cross's liberating power.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Third Article (Concerning Sanctification) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From personal redemption and grateful praise, through God's consistent mercy toward His people, to His tender care and protection, culminating in the cosmic vision of angels and saints in eternal adoration
Themes
Praise and adoration The Trinity Divine glory Redemption through Christ