We Praise You Lord for Jesus Christ
We praise you, Lord, for Jesus Christ
The hymn exemplifies Lutheran praise theology by celebrating God's revelation through both creation and redemption in Christ, emphasizing the connection between natural law and the Gospel. It reflects the Lutheran principle that God's mighty works in creation point believers toward gratitude and faith in Christ's redemptive sacrifice.
History & Background
Originally composed by Swedish author Carl Boberg as 'O Store Gud' in 1885, the hymn was first published in his songbook. It gained international recognition when translated into English and became widely used in Lutheran and other Protestant churches throughout the twentieth century.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 887
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 190
Translation
Carl Boberg (English adaptation)
Bulletin Note
Swedish pastor Carl Boberg wrote this hymn in 1885. Its majestic tune 'O Store Gud' became famous worldwide as 'How Great Thou Art,' uniting Lutheran creation theology with evangelical fervor across generations and languages.
Preaching Connection
This hymn beautifully holds together the Law of creation's majesty with the Gospel of redemption in Christ, showing how reverent awe before God's works naturally leads to grateful surrender at the foot of the cross.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Second Article (Concerning Redemption) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law to Gospel: human insignificance before divine majesty (stanzas 1-2) yields to amazement at Christ's substitutionary atonement (stanza 3) and eschatological hope (stanza 4)
Themes
Creation and God's majesty Praise and thanksgiving Christ's redemption Divine providence Personal faith testimony