The Love of Christ, who Died for Me
The love of Christ, who died for me
The hymn reflects Grundtvig's characteristic focus on the living, resurrection Christ and the existential reality of Christ's love for the believer rather than abstract doctrine. It embodies Lutheran emphasis on justification by grace through faith, centering on Christ's redemptive work for the individual soul.
History & Background
Written by Danish hymnist Nicolai Grundtvig in the 19th century as part of his prolific hymn output emphasizing the living Christ and personal faith. Translated into English by Gracia Grindal and first published in Lutheran hymnals beginning with the 1978 LBW.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 369
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 379
- Lutheran Service Book — 570
- Lutheran Worship — 335
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Danish bishop Nicolai Grundtvik in 1850, this hymn typifies his theology: the living, resurrected Christ whose sacrificial love demands not doctrinal precision but grateful, personal faith and commitment.
Preaching Connection
This hymn amplifies the Gospel's power by moving the hearer from the objective fact of Christ's death to its subjective appropriation—the existential claim that this love is 'for me,' turning abstract redemption into lived, transformative grace.
Themes
Redemptive love Christ's passion Personal faith Grace and forgiveness