Lord Jesus Thou the Church's Head
Lord Jesus, thou the Church's Head
This hymn reflects Lutheran theology emphasizing the organic unity of the Church as Christ's body, where believers find life and sustenance through connection to their living Head. It expresses the Reformation conviction that Christ's authority over the Church is direct and vital, not mediated through hierarchical structures.
History & Background
Written by Danish hymnist Grundtvig in 1817, this hymn celebrates Christ as the living head of His Church. It was translated into English by Peer Ström in 1909 and has become a standard hymn of the Church in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 647
- Lutheran Worship — 293
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 477
Translation
Bulletin Note
Grundtvig's 1817 hymn embodies Lutheran conviction that Christ rules His Church directly through Word and Sacrament, not through ecclesiastical mediation—a Reformation affirmation expressed with warmth and pastoral care.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens proclamation of Christ's lordship by presenting the Church not as an institution needing human governance, but as a living organism dependent on direct communion with the risen Head.
Themes
Church as the body of Christ Christ's headship and authority Unity of believers Living communion with Christ