Out of the Deep I Call
Out of the deep I call
This hymn expresses core Lutheran understanding of justification through grace alone, emphasizing human sinfulness and total dependence on God's mercy rather than works. It reflects the penitential tradition within Lutheranism while proclaiming the Gospel's assurance of forgiveness through Christ.
History & Background
Martin Behm's German hymn 'Aus tiefer Not schrei ich zu dir' was first published in 1602 as a meditation on Psalm 130 and became significant in Lutheran worship. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her influential collection and became the standard English version for Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 278
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 327
Translation
Bach Cantatas
- BWV 38: Out of deep need I cry to you (1724)
Bulletin Note
Martin Behm (1557–1622) wrote this from the Lutheran tradition of penitential hymnody. Set to the sturdy tune *Aus tiefer Not*, it proclaims sola gratia—grace alone—as the only answer to human sin and despair.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Law-Gospel dialectic: it names the sinner's desperate need and utter helplessness, then pivots to proclaim the sufficiency of divine grace—amplifying any sermon on justification, repentance, or the comfort of forgiveness in Christ.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From human despair and sinfulness (Law) through God's pardoning grace (Gospel) to confident hope in God's redemption
Themes
Repentance and forgiveness God's mercy and grace Cry from despair to hope Divine compassion Sin and redemption