We Now Implore God the Holy Ghost
We now implore God the Holy Ghost
This hymn embodies Luther's emphasis on the Holy Spirit's essential role in sustaining the Church and enabling faithful proclamation of the Gospel. It reflects the Reformation conviction that the Spirit, working through Word and Sacrament, preserves the Church against error and empowers believers for witness.
History & Background
Luther composed this hymn in 1524 during the early Reformation as a prayer-hymn imploring the Holy Spirit's aid in the Church's struggles. It was published in the Erfurt Enchiridion (1524) and became one of the most significant German hymns associated with Pentecost and ecclesiastical renewal.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 774
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 317
- Lutheran Service Book — 768
- Lutheran Worship — 155
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 231
Translation
Bulletin Note
Luther composed this Pentecost hymn in 1524, making it among the earliest vernacular hymns of the Reformation. He insisted the Spirit must work through Word and Sacrament to preserve the Church and empower faithful proclamation.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms our recognition of human weakness (the law within us) into an urgent, confident plea for God's promised Spirit—the Gospel's answer to our helplessness and the Church's only true defense against error.
Themes
Holy Spirit invocation Church unity Divine help Spiritual warfare Gospel proclamation