There is a Green Hill Far Away
There is a green hill far away
The hymn presents Christ's atoning work through vivid, accessible imagery of the crucifixion, emphasizing substitutionary atonement central to Lutheran soteriology. It balances doctrinal depth with simplicity, making the paschal mystery comprehensible to believers of all ages.
History & Background
Written by Cecil Frances Alexander in 1848 as a hymn for children to explain the crucifixion, published in her collection 'Hymns for Little Children.' The hymn gained widespread use in Protestant churches throughout the English-speaking world.
Hymnal Appearances
- Chalice Hymnal — 201
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 353
- The Hymnal 1982 — 167
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 114
- New Century Hymnal — 202
Bulletin Note
Written by Irish hymnist Cecil Frances Alexander in 1848, this cherished Lenten hymn uses simple, vivid language to teach the doctrine of atonement to children and adults alike, embodying the principle that theology need not be complex to be true.
Preaching Connection
This hymn powerfully dramatizes substitutionary atonement—Christ dying 'that we might go and sin no more'—making it an ideal response to Law that convicts us and Gospel that frees us through the cross.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Themes
Atonement Christ's passion Substitutionary sacrifice Redemption Calvary