Hymn Desk
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Jesus Christ, My Sure Defense

Jesus Christ, my sure defense

This hymn expresses the Lutheran confidence in Christ's finished work and the believer's justification through faith, particularly emphasizing Easter's victory over sin and death. It reflects the Reformation's emphasis on personal assurance of salvation grounded in Christ rather than works or ecclesiastical authority.

History & Background

Martin Behm composed this hymn in early 17th-century Germany as a confession of faith in Christ's resurrection and the believer's assurance. It was first published in German hymnals and later translated into English by Carl Doving in the early 20th century for Lutheran hymnody.

Hymnal Appearances

  • Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 694
  • Lutheran Book of Worship — 340
  • Lutheran Service Book — 741
  • Lutheran Worship — 266
  • The Lutheran Hymnal — 206

Translation

Carl Doving

Bulletin Note

Composed by Martin Behm in 1610, this hymn embodies Lutheran confidence in Christ's finished work and justification by faith alone—a deeply personal claim to salvation grounded not in works but in Easter's victory.

Preaching Connection

This hymn powerfully translates the Law-Gospel movement into devotional song: it names our helplessness before sin and death, then thunders the Easter proclamation that Christ's resurrection is our certain hope and complete vindication.

Catechism & Confessional Connections

Themes

Assurance of salvation Resurrection of Christ Victory over death Faith and confidence in Jesus

Look Further