Since Our Great High Priest, Christ Jesus
Since our great High Priest, Christ Jesus
The hymn develops the Hebrews theme of Christ as the eternal High Priest who intercedes for the Church at God's right hand, central to Lutheran soteriology and the doctrine of Christ's continuing work. It celebrates the ascended Christ's active mediation, reflecting both Christ's exaltation and His persistent advocacy for believers.
History & Background
Written by Danish bishop and hymnologist Nicolai Grundtvig in 1844, this hymn reflects his characteristic emphasis on Christ's living and active role in the Church. The English translation by George A. T. Ryberg was published in 1969 and has been adopted in contemporary Lutheran hymnals.
Based on several texts in the letter to the Hebrews—1:3-4, Scripture References st. l=Heb. 4:14; 1:4 4:14-16, and 12:2—this song incorporates parts of the book’s lengthy discussion about Jesus Christ as our High st. 2 = Heb. 4:15-16 Priest and about his absolute supremacy and sufficiency st. 3 = Heb. 1:3-4; 12:2; 4:15 st. 4 = Heb. 12:2; 4:15 as the Mediator of God’s grace. Because we have such a Priest/Mediator, who identifies with our weaknesses but is without sin, we can confidently approach God’s throne of grace and find help for our 364 BIBLE SONGS needs. Christopher M. Idle wrote this song in London in 1971; it was first published in the British collection PsaImPraise (1973) as an Ascension canticle.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 529
- Psalter Hymnal — 230
Translation
Liturgical Use
Ascension Day; whenever the church focuses on Christ’s role as High Priest and ascended Lord.
Bulletin Note
Grundtvig's 1844 hymn anchors Lutheran soteriology in Hebrews' High Priest theology. The Danish pastor-poet emphasized Christ's ascended work—not past event alone, but living mediation—shaping renewal of hymnody across Scandinavia.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Gospel movement from accusation to absolution: it acknowledges our need for mediation while proclaiming Christ's victorious, present intercession as the answer to our deepest spiritual poverty.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From Christ's invitation to rest (addressing spiritual weariness) through acceptance of that rest, then to Christ's offer of living water (addressing spiritual thirst) through drinking and living in him—a movement from passive reception to active transformation
Themes
Christ's intercession High priesthood of Christ Ascension Prayer and intercession Mediation