Lord Jesus We Give Thanks to Thee
Lord Jesus, we give thanks to Thee
The hymn emphasizes gratitude as a central Christian response to Christ's redemptive work, embodying the Lutheran principle of sola gratia. It connects sacrificial praise with the priesthood of all believers through Christ's intercession.
History & Background
This hymn appears in The Lutheran Hymnal (1941) as hymn 173, reflecting the Lutheran hymnic tradition of gratitude-centered worship. The text's authorship remains obscure, characteristic of many nineteenth-century German hymnic adaptations.
Hymnal Appearances
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 173
Bulletin Note
An anonymous hymn from the early 1800s set to the sturdy tune ERHALT UNS HERR ('Lord, Keep Us Steadfast'). It crystallizes Lutheran theology: grace received as thanksgiving offered, uniting all believers in Christ's priesthood.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Gospel's power to awaken grateful obedience: Christ's redemptive work (Gospel) compels the believer's response of perpetual thanksgiving and priestly offering (the believer's grateful Law-response through grace).
Themes
Thanksgiving Christ's sacrifice Praise and worship Gratitude for redemption