Rise Again Ye Lion-Hearted
Rise again, ye lion-hearted
The hymn embodies the Lutheran emphasis on the Christian's struggle against sin and Satan, grounded in the resurrection of Christ and the certainty of eternal life. It reflects Reformation confidence in God's providential care over His persecuted church.
History & Background
Martin Behm composed this hymn in 1602 as an encouragement to German Protestants facing persecution. The text was widely adopted in Lutheran hymnals and translated into English in the nineteenth century.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 298
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 470
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Martin Behm in 1602, this Lutheran Reformation hymn strengthens persecuted believers through the resurrection. Its defiant tone and military imagery reflect the church's confidence in God's providential protection amid opposition.
Preaching Connection
This hymn powerfully embodies the Law-Gospel movement: it names our weakness and defeat, then pivots entirely to Christ's resurrection as the grounds of our certain triumph—a proclamation that strengthens faith where guilt alone would crush us.
Themes
martyrdom and witness courage in suffering resurrection hope Christian perseverance overcoming persecution