Jesus Sinners Will Receive
Jesus sinners will receive
The hymn exemplifies Lutheran theology by centering on Christ as the sole mediator who welcomes all sinners without regard to their worthiness, reflecting the doctrine of justification by grace through faith alone. It emphasizes the unconditional nature of God's mercy and the comfort of the Gospel for those who repent and believe.
History & Background
Erdmann Neumeister composed this hymn as part of his cantata texts for the church year in 1718, using the theme of Christ's welcoming of sinners from the parable of the lost sheep. The hymn was translated into English by C. F. W. Walther in 1845 and has remained a centerpiece of Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 594
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 291
- Lutheran Service Book — 609, 974
- Lutheran Worship — 229
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 324
- With One Voice — 653
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Lutheran pastor Erdmann Neumeister in 1718, this hymn proclaims Christ's unconditional reception of sinners—the very heart of Lutheran theology and the comfort of the cross.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Lutheran claim that Christ alone mediates between God and sinners, making it a powerful witness to justification by grace through faith that both humbles us under the Law and lifts us up in the Gospel's embrace.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Themes
Repentance God's grace and mercy Forgiveness Justification by faith