God's Word Is Our Great Heritage
God's Word is our great heritage
The hymn articulates the Reformed doctrine of sola scriptura while emphasizing Scripture as both precious inheritance and living guide for faith and practice. It reflects Lutheran confidence in Scripture's sufficiency, clarity, and power to sustain the Church through all ages.
History & Background
Written by Danish bishop and hymn writer Nikolai Grundtvig in 1817 as a celebration of Scripture's eternal value and authority. Translated into English by George Ryberg in 1909 and has become a beloved Reformation hymn in Lutheran tradition.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 866
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 239
- Lutheran Service Book — 582
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 841
- Lutheran Worship — 333
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 283
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Danish pastor Nikolai Grundtvig in 1817, this hymn celebrates Scripture's sufficiency and living power—core convictions of the Reformation. Grundtvig shaped modern Lutheran hymnody with his conviction that the living Word sustains the Church.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran conviction that Scripture conveys both the demanding clarity of the Law and the liberating power of the Gospel, making it an ideal companion to sermons exploring how God's Word accomplishes what it promises.
Themes
Scripture authority God's Word enduring Christian heritage Truth of Scripture God's faithfulness