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I Trust, O Christ, in You Alone

I trust, O Christ, in You alone

I Trust, O Christ, in You Alone is a hymn text by Martin Behm (1610) in L.M. (8.8.8.8) meter. Translated by Catherine Winkworth. Found in CW93 437, ELH 415, elw 504, lbw 395.

This hymn embodies Lutheran soteriology centered on Christ as sole Mediator and source of salvation, reflecting the exclusivity articulated in Acts 4:12. It combines Law (recognition of human helplessness) with Gospel (confident trust in Christ's redemptive work and resurrection power).

History & Background

Martin Behm's German hymn "Ich traue auf Gott allein" was published in 1610 during the Thirty Years' War and reflects its era's theological emphasis on firm faith amid suffering. Catherine Winkworth translated the text into English in her 1858 collection, making it accessible to English-speaking Lutheran congregations.

Hymnal Appearances

  • Christian Worship — 437
  • Evangelical Lutheran Hymnary — 415
  • Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 504
  • Lutheran Book of Worship — 395
  • Lutheran Service Book — 972
  • Lutheran Worship — 357
  • The Lutheran Hymnal — 319

Translation

Catherine Winkworth

Bulletin Note

Composed by Martin Behm in 1610, this hymn exemplifies Lutheran soteriology: Christ alone as Mediator (Acts 4:12). Its steadfast meter mirrors the unshakeable confidence it teaches. A Reformation classic sung at both Easter celebrations and funerals.

Preaching Connection

This hymn crystallizes the Law-Gospel movement: it names human frailty and transience, then pivots completely to Christ's resurrection power and heavenly advocacy—the exact movement your sermon should embody.

Catechism & Confessional Connections

In the Church Year

Hymn of the Day (Lutheran Service Book) for: Lent 4

Suggested in the one-year series

  • Lent 4 (1×)
  • Trinity 13 (3×)

Suggested in the three-year series

  • Lent 4 (4×)
  • Proper 8 (1×)

From LCMS Worship's published hymn suggestions, 2014–2026. The count is how many of those yearly lists suggested this hymn for that day.

Themes

Trust in Christ Resurrection hope Assurance of salvation Christ's exclusive sufficiency Comfort in affliction

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