O Savior of Our Fallen Race
O Savior of our fallen race
The hymn presents Lutheran Christology emphasizing the doctrine of the Incarnation as the central act of redemption for fallen humanity. It reflects the Lutheran understanding of Christ as both fully divine and fully human, working salvation for all people.
History & Background
Written by Charles Porterfield Krauth in 1867, this hymn was first published in Lutheran hymnals and reflects American Lutheran theology of the mid-19th century. It has remained a standard Lutheran hymn expressing Christological themes of the Incarnation.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 657
- The Hymnal 1982 — 165
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 49
- Lutheran Service Book — 403
- Lutheran Worship — 45
Bulletin Note
Composed in 1867 by Lutheran pastor and theologian Charles Porterfield Krauth, this hymn anchors the doctrine of the Incarnation as redemptive center, reflecting classical Lutheran Christology and the comfort of God's Word made flesh.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Law-Gospel movement: it names our fallen state while proclaiming the divine mercy that answers it through the Incarnation itself, making Christ the measure of both our need and God's inexhaustible love.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law to Gospel: from the demand of belief and baptism, through Christ's redemptive work and Spirit-empowered perseverance, to doxological assurance of eternal inheritance
Themes
Incarnation of Christ Redemption of humanity Word made flesh Divine love Salvation through Christ