Oh How Great Is Thy Compassion
Oh, how great is Thy compassion
This hymn expresses the Lutheran emphasis on Christ's substitutionary atonement and the comfort found in His compassionate suffering for human sin. It reflects the Reformation's focus on the merits of Christ alone as the basis for salvation.
History & Background
Johann Heermann composed this German hymn in the 17th century as a meditation on Christ's passion and suffering. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her Lyra Germanica (1858) and became widely used in English Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 559
- Lutheran Worship — 364
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 384
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Johann Heermann in 1630, this German hymn reflects the Reformation's emphasis on Christ's substitutionary atonement and the comfort believers find in His compassionate suffering. A profound meditation on grace alone.
Preaching Connection
This hymn articulates the heart of Lutheran soteriology: the Law exposes our sin and unworthiness, while the Gospel proclaims Christ's compassionate atonement as the sole ground of our justification—making it a perfect vehicle for preaching the full counsel of God's redemptive work.
Themes
Passion of Christ Divine compassion Redemption Grace Penitence