O Jesus Christ, true Lamb of God
O Jesus Christ, true Lamb of God is a hymn text by Martin Luther (1524) in L.M. (8.8.8.8) meter. Translated by Robert E. Bjork. Found in elw 434, hs98 13, lbw 111, lsb 438. Sung to AGNUS DEI.
This hymn expresses core Lutheran eucharistic theology emphasizing Christ's vicarious atonement and the comfort of forgiveness through faith in His sacrifice. It reflects Luther's doctrine that Christ's body and blood are genuinely present in the sacrament for the forgiveness of sins.
History & Background
Martin Luther composed this Agnus Dei as a congregational hymn based on the John 1:29 pericope, first published in 1524 as part of the German Mass liturgy. It became one of the most significant Lutheran eucharistic hymns and has been translated into numerous languages.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 434
- Hymnal Supplement 98 — 13
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 111
- Lutheran Service Book — 438
- Lutheran Worship — 270
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 136
- With One Voice — 674
Translation
Bulletin Note
Luther's 1524 hymn. Rooted in the Agnus Dei liturgical prayer, it echoes the Fourth Gospel's image of Christ as the Lamb of God while anchoring Lutheran eucharistic faith in substitutionary atonement.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes Luther's conviction that Christ's vicarious atonement—the Lamb bearing our sin—is the Gospel's heart, transforming the Law's accusation into mercy.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Third Article (Concerning Sanctification) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law to Gospel: acknowledgment of universal sin, appeal to Christ's sacrificial work, petition for mercy and peace
Themes
Atonement Sacrifice of Christ Forgiveness of sins Redemption Eucharistic theology