Shepherd of Tender Youth
Shepherd of tender youth
The hymn presents Christ as the caring Shepherd whose guidance leads believers through life, reflecting the Lutheran emphasis on Christ's redemptive work and pastoral care. It grounds Christian faith in the person of Christ rather than abstract doctrine, aligning with Reformation principles of Christocentricity.
History & Background
This ancient hymn originates from Clement of Alexandria's Paedagogus (c. 200 AD) and is among the oldest surviving Christian hymns. It was translated into English by Henry Martyn Hart in the 19th century and has been widely adopted in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 613
- Lutheran Service Book — 864
- Lutheran Worship — 471
- New Century Hymnal — 468
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 628
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Clement of Alexandria around 200 AD, this is among the oldest Christian hymns still sung. It echoes the pastoral imagery Jesus used in the Gospels, presenting Christ's shepherding as the Church's foundational comfort.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens the Gospel proclamation by moving beyond Christ's redemptive work at the cross to His ongoing, intimate pastoral presence—assuring believers that grace continues daily through the Shepherd's watchful care.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From invocation of God's faithfulness and provision, through petition for physical and spiritual wellness, to commitment of daily obedience, concluding in confidence that God's mercy guides us through death itself.
Themes
Christ as shepherd Divine care and guidance Protection of the faithful Christological foundation