Now May He Who from the Dead
Now may He who from the dead
This hymn expresses the Reformation doctrine of justification by grace through faith, grounding Christian sanctification in Christ's resurrection power. The petitionary structure reflects Lutheran understanding that the believer's growth in grace depends upon Christ's intercessory work and the Holy Spirit's enabling.
History & Background
Written by Danish bishop Grundtvig in 1844, this hymn became central to Lutheran worship in Scandinavia. It was translated into English by Danish-American Peer Ørn Böcker in 1909 and included in The Lutheran Hymnal (1941).
Hymnal Appearances
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 51
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Danish hymnodist Grundtvig in 1844, this Reformation hymn anchors Christian sanctification in Christ's resurrection and heavenly intercession, reflecting the Lutheran conviction that grace alone sustains all spiritual growth.
Preaching Connection
This hymn grounds the Gospel promise of justification in Christ's ascended intercession, inviting the hearer to receive grace passively while responding actively—a kerygmatic balance between divine gift and human obedience.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law's condemnation → Gospel's grace → Christ's redemption → Faith's assurance
Themes
Christ's resurrection Sanctification Apostolic blessing Christian living Grace