The Ten Commandments Are the Law
The Ten Commandments are the law
This hymn embodies Luther's understanding of the Law as a schoolmaster leading to Christ, revealing human sinfulness and the need for grace. It reflects the Lutheran commitment to clear catechetical instruction grounded in Scripture and the Decalogue's central role in moral instruction and repentance.
History & Background
Written by Martin Luther around 1524 as part of his catechetical hymn cycle on the Ten Commandments for instruction of the faith. Published in early Lutheran hymnals as a pedagogical tool for teaching God's Law to congregations and children.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 311
- Lutheran Service Book — 581
- Lutheran Worship — 331
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 287
Bulletin Note
Luther's 1524 hymn grounds catechetical instruction in the Decalogue itself. For Luther, the Ten Commandments functioned as law's proper work—convicting sinners and driving them to Christ, not to self-righteous works.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes Luther's Law-Gospel dialectic: the Commandments expose human rebellion and helplessness, creating the soil where grace alone can take root and the cross becomes our only hope.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law's condemnation → Gospel's grace → Christ's redemption → Faith's assurance
Themes
God's Law Ten Commandments Repentance Judgment Human sinfulness