In the Name which Earth and Heaven
In the name which earth and heaven
This hymn reflects the Lutheran emphasis on the centrality of Christ's name as the source of salvation and the means by which believers approach God in prayer. It connects to the invocation of God's name in the Small Catechism's explanation of the Lord's Prayer and emphasizes the efficacy of prayer offered in Jesus' name.
History & Background
Originally written in German by Heinrich Bone in 1847, this hymn emphasizes the power of Christ's name in prayer and worship. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in 1863 and became standard in Lutheran hymnody through The Lutheran Hymnal (1941).
Hymnal Appearances
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 632
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by German pastor Heinrich Bone in 1847, this hymn embodies the Lutheran principle that Christ's name is the believer's surest access to God—a theme Martin Luther developed extensively in his catechetical writings on prayer.
Preaching Connection
This hymn develops the Gospel's central promise: that Christ's exalted name grants sinners direct access to God's throne, transforming desperate prayer into confident petition and restoring what the Law condemns.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From divine calling to missionary commission: the believer receives God's Word, develops compassionate hearts for the lost, practices faithful intercession, and participates in God's redemptive work until all creation glorifies Him
Themes
The Name of Jesus Prayer and Intercession God's power and majesty Reverence and worship