O Jesus So Sweet, O Jesus So Mild
O Jesus so sweet, O Jesus so mild
This hymn exemplifies Lutheran Christology by focusing on the paradox of divine majesty humbled in human flesh as an infant. The text encourages affectionate devotion to Christ's incarnate nature while maintaining orthodox understanding of His divinity.
History & Background
Martin Behm composed this German hymn in the early 17th century as a tender meditation on the Incarnation. The text was later translated into English and adapted for Lutheran hymnals, appearing in various American Lutheran collections.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 546
- Lutheran Worship — 370
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 93
Translation
Bulletin Note
Martin Behm (1557–1622), a German Lutheran pastor, composed this hymn to draw believers into intimate devotion to the incarnate Christ. It captures the paradox central to Lutheran theology: divine majesty revealed in humble, gentle human form.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens proclamation of the incarnation by translating doctrinal truth into devotional longing, showing how Gospel comfort addresses the Law's exposure of human need through Christ's self-emptying love.
Themes
Incarnation of Christ Childlike devotion to Jesus Sweetness of Christ's nature Divine love and tenderness