What Is the World to Me
What is the world to me
The hymn articulates the Lutheran distinction between the two kingdoms by affirming that earthly possessions and status are ultimately insignificant compared to Christ. It demonstrates how Christian faith reorients values toward eternal rather than temporal concerns, reflecting the sanctification emphasis of Lutheran theology.
History & Background
Martin Behm composed this hymn in German as 'Was ist mir die Welt zu gut' in 1602 during the early German Baroque period. Matthias Loy translated it into English in 1880, and it has remained a standard Lutheran hymn emphasizing spiritual detachment from worldly concerns.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 738
- Lutheran Service Book — 730
- Lutheran Worship — 418
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 430
Translation
Bulletin Note
Martin Behm's 'What Is the World to Me' (1602) crystallizes Lutheran theology: earthly rank and riches fade, but Christ endures as the Christian's supreme inheritance and satisfaction.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran two kingdoms doctrine by exposing the Law's judgment on worldly attachment while proclaiming the Gospel's singular answer: Christ as the Christian's true and lasting treasure.
Themes
Renunciation of worldly values Christ as treasure Detachment from materialism Christian priorities