The Death of Jesus Christ, Our Lord
The death of Jesus Christ, our Lord
This hymn expresses the Lutheran understanding of Christ's death as the substitutionary atonement that reconciles sinners to God, central to the doctrine of justification by faith alone. It emphasizes how Christ's singular sacrifice accomplishes redemption for all believers, reflecting the Lutheran interpretation of Hebrews and Pauline theology.
History & Background
Written by German pastor Heinrich Behm in the early 17th century as a eucharistic hymn emphasizing Christ's atoning death. First published in German hymnals and widely translated into English, with John Mattes providing the standard English version used in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 740
- Lutheran Service Book — 634
- Lutheran Worship — 107
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 163
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Heinrich Behm in 1610, this hymn teaches the Lutheran understanding of Christ's death as vicarious sacrifice—the singular offering that satisfies the Law and reconciles sinners to God through faith.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Lutheran doctrine of substitutionary atonement, making visible how the Gospel's promise of justification by faith alone is purchased entirely by Christ's obedient death.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Themes
Atonement through Christ's death Justification by faith Substitutionary sacrifice The significance of the cross