God We Praise You
God we praise you and confess
The hymn expresses the Church's ancient doxological response to God's character and redemptive work, affirming Trinitarian doctrine and the communion of saints. It demonstrates Lutheran continuity with patristic theology and ecumenical Christian witness across centuries.
History & Background
Te Deum laudamus originated in the early Church, traditionally attributed to Nicetas of Remesiana (4th-5th century), though possibly composed by Ambrose. The English text 'God We Praise You' is a modern hymnic adaptation popularized in Lutheran hymnals beginning with the LBW (1978).
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 867
- Glory to God — 612
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 535
- Lutheran Service Book — 950
- Lutheran Worship — 381
Translation
Bulletin Note
Attributed to Nicetas of Remesiana (5th c.), this doxological hymn roots Lutheran worship in patristic theology and the ecumenical witness of the ancient Church, affirming Trinitarian faith across denominational lines.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Gospel proclamation of Christ as Lord and Redeemer, offering the congregation a corporate voice to confess and celebrate the grace that alone saves us.
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: Ascriptive praise of the Triune God → Universal cosmic worship → Trinitarian confession → Christological judgment and mercy petition
Themes
God's praise and glory Trinitarian confession Apostolic faith Eternal worship Divine majesty