Soli Deo Gloria
Soli Deo gloria! All glory be to God alone
A doxological hymn celebrating the Reformation motto Soli Deo Gloria. Each stanza applies the glory of God to different aspects of Christian life — worship, service, suffering, and hope. Bach inscribed SDG at the end of every sacred composition.
History & Background
Written by Carl Schalk (b.1929) in 1985. A doxological hymn using the Reformation motto Soli Deo Gloria (To God alone be glory), which Bach inscribed on all his sacred works.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 878
Bulletin Note
Soli Deo Gloria — Carl Schalk, 1985
Preaching Connection
To God alone be the glory — the Reformation motto applied to all of life.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: God's will for justice and mercy → thanksgiving for faithful service → petition for wise leadership → call to communal discipleship
Themes
Doxology Reformation Bach Glory of God