O Dearest Jesus, What Law Hast Thou Broken
O dearest Jesus, what law hast thou broken
This hymn exemplifies Lutheran penal substitutionary atonement theology, emphasizing Christ's vicarious satisfaction of God's law on behalf of sinners. It reflects the Reformation's recovery of forensic justification and the centrality of Christ's passive obedience and suffering.
History & Background
Johann Heermann composed this hymn in German as 'Herzliebster Jesu, was hast du verbrochen' around 1630 during the Thirty Years' War. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her 1858 collection 'Lyra Germanica' and became the standard version in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 345
- The Hymnal 1982 — 158
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 123
- Lutheran Service Book — 439
- Lutheran Worship — 119
- Trinity Hymnal — 247
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 143
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Johann Heermann in 1630, this Lenten hymn expresses the heart of Lutheran atonement theology: Christ's passive obedience and vicarious suffering satisfy divine justice, freeing sinners through faith alone.
Preaching Connection
This hymn's concentrated focus on penal substitution—Christ bearing our penalty—makes it an ideal anchor for sermons unpacking the Law's accusation and the Gospel's vindication through forensic justification.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law (human guilt and Christ's rejection) → Gospel (substitutionary atonement and divine intercession) → Response (adoration and petition for pardon)
Themes
Atonement Substitutionary sacrifice Christ's passion Guilt and forgiveness Penal substitution