To God the Anthem Raising
To God the anthem raising
This hymn embodies the Lutheran principle of the priesthood of all believers through congregational song raised in unified praise to God. It demonstrates the Lutheran recovery of Psalm-singing as central to worship, echoing the Reformation's emphasis on Scripture and congregational participation.
History & Background
Martin Behm's German hymn 'Gott, dir sei Lob und Preis gesungen' was published in 1610 and became a staple of German Lutheran worship. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her 1863 collection 'Chorale Book for England,' making it accessible to English-speaking Lutherans.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 26
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 112
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Martin Behm in 1610, this hymn exemplifies the Reformation's recovery of Psalm-singing and congregational participation in worship, embedding Scripture and grateful praise at the heart of Lutheran devotion.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Gospel call to grateful response: having received God's grace in Christ, believers cannot help but overflow in praise, making congregational song itself an act of faith and witness to God's mercies.
Themes
Praise and adoration God's sovereignty Doxology Psalm singing Lutheran piety