To Jordan Came Our Lord the Christ
To Jordan came our Lord, the Christ
The hymn meditates on Christ's voluntary submission to baptism, emphasizing His identification with human sin and repentance despite His own sinlessness. This reflects Lutheran emphasis on Christ's full humanity and His redemptive work accomplished through humble obedience to the Father's will.
History & Background
Originally written in Danish by Kierkegaard for liturgical use, this hymn was translated into English and incorporated into Lutheran hymnals in the early 20th century. It has appeared in major Lutheran hymnals including LBW and LSB.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 308
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 79
- Lutheran Service Book — 406-407
- Lutheran Worship — 223
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Søren Kierkegaard in 1844, this hymn reflects the Danish theologian's meditation on Christ's voluntary identification with human repentance—a deeply Lutheran contemplation of grace received through humble obedience.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran paradox of Law and Gospel: Christ's baptism exposes the depth of human sinfulness He came to bear, yet declares that through His voluntary submission to righteousness, all who believe are clothed in His innocence.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Baptism Small Catechism — Holy Baptism
Themes
Christ's baptism Humiliation of Christ Repentance Obedience Identification with sinners