Speak O Lord Thy Servant Heareth
Speak, O Lord, Thy servant heareth
This hymn exemplifies Lutheran emphasis on God's Word as the means of grace and the believer's responsive faith to divine address. It reflects the doctrine that God communicates redemptively through Scripture and calls forth obedient faith in those who truly hear.
History & Background
This Swedish hymn was written by C. M. Bellman in the late 18th century and reflects Pietist themes of personal devotion and responsive obedience to God's call. It has been widely translated and adapted for use in Lutheran hymnals, particularly in German and English-speaking traditions.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 589
- Lutheran Worship — 339
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 296
Translation
Bulletin Note
Penned by Swedish poet Karl Mauritz Bellman in 1790, this hymn celebrates the living Word of God as means of grace, anchoring Lutheran piety in attentive listening and responsive faith.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran conviction that God's redemptive Word calls forth faith: the Law demands our obedience, and the Gospel assures us that God Himself speaks to us with grace and presence.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law to Gospel: repentance and removal of spiritual obstacles (stanzas 1-2) leading to joyful preparation and divine transformation (stanzas 3-4)
Themes
Obedience to God's word Listening and faith God's call Divine communication Samuel's vocation