Praise God the Lord Ye Sons of Men
Praise God the Lord ye sons of men
This hymn celebrates the Incarnation as God's supreme act of mercy, bringing divine grace directly into human experience through Christ's birth. It reflects Lutheran emphasis on God's freely given mercy as the foundation of salvation, accessible to all people through faith in Christ.
History & Background
Nicolai Decius composed this hymn in German as 'Lobe Gott den Herrn' in 1541 during the Reformation period. Catherine Winkworth provided this English translation in 1863, making it accessible to English-speaking Lutheran congregations.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 286
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 47
- Lutheran Service Book — 389
- Lutheran Worship — 44
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 105
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Nicolai Decius in 1541, this German Reformation hymn anchors Christmas faith in the doctrine of sola gratia—God's mercy alone—making the Incarnation accessible to every believing Christian.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran proclamation of freely given grace: God's supreme mercy breaks into human history through Christ's birth, offering comfort to all who receive it by faith rather than works.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Universal call to worship → Recognition of God's sovereignty and care → Liturgical entry into God's presence → Affirmation of God's eternal goodness and faithfulness
Themes
Incarnation Divine mercy and grace Praise and adoration Nativity of Christ