Oh Sing to the Lord
Oh sing to the Lord a new song
This hymn embodies the Lutheran joy in salvation and the corporate nature of worship through congregational singing as a form of theological proclamation. It reflects the Reformation emphasis on the active participation of the laity in worship through vernacular hymnody.
History & Background
Originally composed in German by Johann Cruger in 1640 as 'Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied,' this hymn became a staple of German Lutheran worship. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her 1863 collection and became the standard version for English-speaking Lutherans.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 821
- Glory to God — 821
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 256
- Lutheran Worship — 205
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 44
- Voices Together — 78
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Johann Cruger in 1640, this hymn exemplifies the Lutheran Reformation's gift to the church: congregational singing as theological proclamation, placing the Gospel directly into the mouths and hearts of ordinary believers.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the Gospel's proclamation of free grace into congregational song, embodying the Reformation conviction that joy in salvation—not fear of judgment—is the proper response to God's Word.
Themes
Praise and worship Rejoicing in God's goodness Vocal proclamation of faith Joy in creation