Praise to Thee and Adoration
Praise to thee and adoration
The hymn exemplifies Lutheran theology's emphasis on God's providential care and the Christian's response of grateful praise. It reflects the Reformation recovery of congregational singing as essential to worship and spiritual formation within the priesthood of all believers.
History & Background
Martin Behm's German hymn 'Lobe den Herren' was published in 1610 and became one of the most beloved Lutheran hymns of praise. John Christian Jacobi's English translation appeared in 1732, adapting the text for English-speaking congregations while maintaining theological depth and congregational accessibility.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 704
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 470
- Lutheran Service Book — 692
- Lutheran Worship — 387
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 401
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Martin Behm in 1610, this hymn exemplifies how Lutheran congregations recovered singing as central to worship and spiritual formation. Its tune, LOBE DEN HERREN, unites German Reformation piety with the priesthood of all believers.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Gospel's proclamation of God's provident care and moves the hearer toward the Law's proper function: to kindle glad obedience and faithful stewardship as the fitting human response to unmerited grace.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Fourth Petition Small Catechism — The Lord's Prayer
- The Definition & Command of Baptism Small Catechism — Holy Baptism
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law (divine majesty and power) → Gospel (providence, mercy, sustenance) → Gospel (daily goodness) → Gospel (communal adoration and response)
Themes
Praise and adoration God's sovereignty Trust in divine providence Thanksgiving Stewardship