O Little Flock, Fear Not the Foe
O little flock, fear not the foe
This hymn exemplifies Lutheran teaching on the certainty of Christ's kingdom despite earthly trials and the Church's confidence in divine protection. It reflects the Lutheran emphasis on both Law (judgment on persecutors) and Gospel (Christ's ultimate victory and believers' security).
History & Background
Originally composed in German by Christian Keymann in 1658 during the post-Reformation period of Lutheran consolidation. Translated into English by Marcus Aurelius Root in 1918, appearing in The Evangelical Lutheran Hymnal and subsequently in major Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 695
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 361
- Lutheran Service Book — 666
- Lutheran Worship — 300
- Trinity Hymnal — 361
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 263
- Voices Together — 803
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Christian Keymann in 1658 during religious conflict, this hymn anchors the Church's confidence not in earthly circumstances but in Christ's certain triumph and the believer's security in His eternal kingdom.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the Law's condemnation of persecutors into the Gospel's unshakeable promise that Christ's kingdom stands eternally victorious while believers find their refuge in Him.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christ as fulfillment of law and source of grace; from petition for mercy through faith to healing and resurrection glory
Themes
Trust in Christ's victory Persecution and suffering Faith amid adversity Christ's protection Comfort for the persecuted