Lord Jesus Christ Thou hast Prepared
Lord Jesus Christ, Thou hast prepared
This hymn emphasizes Christ's instituted sacrament as memorial of His atoning sacrifice, reflecting Lutheran sacramental theology that honors Christ's real presence and redemptive work. The text echoes 1 Corinthians 11:26, affirming the proclamatory and commemorative character of the Eucharist in Lutheran practice.
History & Background
Originally composed in German as a eucharistic hymn by Johann Funck in his 1642 hymnal. The text was translated into English and adopted by Lutheran hymnals in the nineteenth century for communion celebrations.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 205
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 208
- Lutheran Service Book — 622
- Lutheran Worship — 246
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 306
Translation
Bulletin Note
Johann Funck (1642) composed this hymn in the Lutheran sacramental tradition, emphasizing Christ's real presence and the Eucharist as both memorial of sacrifice and proclamation of grace—echoing the apostolic witness of 1 Corinthians 11:26.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens Lutheran sacramental theology by binding Christ's historical sacrifice (Law's demand met) to His sacramental presence today (Gospel's comfort given), inviting preachers to show how the Eucharist both recalls redemption and imparts it.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Second Article (Concerning Redemption) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
- The Definition & Command of Communion Small Catechism — Holy Communion
- Of Lord’s Supper Augsburg Confession
Themes
Sacramental theology Eucharist Christ's passion and atonement Memorial of Christ's death Table fellowship