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Lord Jesus Christ, Life-Giving Bread

Lord Jesus Christ, life-giving bread

Lord Jesus Christ, Life-Giving Bread is a hymn text by Josua Stegmann (1627) in L.M. (8.8.8.8) meter. Translated by F. Samuel Janzow. Found in elw 480, lsb 625, lw 248, tlh 312. Sung to ST. PETERSBURG.

This hymn articulates the Lutheran understanding of the Eucharist as a means of grace wherein Christ's body and blood are received for the forgiveness of sins and spiritual nourishment. It reflects the Reformation's retention of sacramental theology against both Roman Catholic transubstantiation and Reformed memorial views.

History & Background

Originally published in German as "Herr Jesu Christ, du höchstes Gut" in Stegmann's hymnal collection (1627). The English translation by F. Samuel Janzow appeared in the Lutheran Book of Worship (1978), becoming the standard English version for Lutheran hymnody.

Hymnal Appearances

  • Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 480
  • Lutheran Service Book — 625
  • Lutheran Worship — 248
  • The Lutheran Hymnal — 312

Translation

F. Samuel Janzow

Bulletin Note

Composed by Josua Stegmann in 1627, this German hymn embodies Lutheran sacramental theology: Christ's presence in bread and wine mediates forgiveness and sustenance to sinners who trust His promises, not their merit.

Preaching Connection

This hymn deepens a sermon on the Eucharist by transforming the Law's conviction of unworthiness into the Gospel's assurance that Christ's self-gift—body and blood—is the only remedy for sin and the sole source of eternal life.

Catechism & Confessional Connections

In the Church Year

Suggested in the one-year series

  • Trinity 7 (5×)
  • Easter 3 (3×)
  • Ash Wednesday (2×)
  • Lent 4 (1×)
  • Maundy Thursday (1×)
  • Trinity 24 (1×)

Suggested in the three-year series

  • Proper 11 (5×)
  • Proper 14 (2×)
  • Proper 15 (2×)
  • Proper 19 (2×)
  • Easter 4 (1×)
  • Proper 13 (1×)
  • Proper 6 (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

Holy Communion Christ as sustenance Redemption through Christ's body and blood Eucharistic devotion

Look Further