Lord Lead the Way the Savior Went
Lord, lead the way the Savior went
This hymn embodies Lutheran emphasis on sanctification as the Christian's response to grace, calling believers to follow Christ's pattern of humble service. It reflects the Lutheran understanding of the Christian life as one of daily repentance and cross-bearing in imitation of Christ.
History & Background
Written by Oswald Allen in the mid-19th century as a hymn of discipleship emphasizing following Christ's example of self-sacrifice. First published in English hymnals during the Victorian era and included in The Lutheran Hymnal in 1941.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 363
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 440
Bulletin Note
Written by Oswald Allen in 1860, this L.M. hymn captures the Victorian-era Lutheran emphasis on sanctification as grateful response to grace—the believer's daily 'yes' to following Christ in humble service.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the Law's demand for self-denial (Matthew 16:24) into a grace-filled response, showing how the Gospel empowers the Christian's imitation of Christ through daily repentance and cross-bearing.
Themes
Christian discipleship Following Christ Self-denial and sacrifice Service to others Cross-bearing