O Blessed Day When First was Poured
O blessed day when first was poured
The hymn celebrates God's gracious incarnation and Christ's baptism as fulfillment of Old Testament promise and foundation for Christian baptismal grace. It exemplifies Lutheran sacramental theology by connecting Christ's baptism to the believer's baptismal covenant and assurance of forgiveness.
History & Background
Written by Martin Behm in 1602 as a German hymn commemorating the baptism and incarnation of Christ. Translated into English by Catherine Winkworth in 1869 and included in The Chorale Book for England.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 287
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 115
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Martin Behm in 1602, this hymn masterfully links Christ's baptism to our own, making sacramental theology singable. It exemplifies Lutheran confidence in God's covenant grace sealed in water and Word.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Gospel movement of incarnate mercy: Christ's self-emptying descent into baptismal waters becomes the mercy-flood that drowns our sin and raises us to new life in God.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Baptism Small Catechism — Holy Baptism
Themes
Incarnation Baptism of Christ Divine mercy Covenant grace Christian initiation