When I Behold Jesus Christ
When I behold Jesus Christ
The hymn emphasizes the centrality of Christ's substitutionary atonement as the basis for Christian faith and assurance. It reflects Lutheran emphasis on justification through Christ's sacrifice and the personal appropriation of redemptive grace.
History & Background
Insufficient research data available for this hymn. The hymn appears in Lutheran Service Book (2006) as hymn 542 but lacks established publication history documentation.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 542
Bulletin Note
Author unknown, this hymn reflects the Reformation's central conviction: the cross of Christ is the believer's only comfort, assurance, and ground of hope. Its meditation on beholding Christ deepens the Gospel's personal appropriation.
Preaching Connection
This hymn articulates the Lutheran heart of justification: by beholding Christ's substitutionary atonement in faith, sinners are declared righteous, making it a powerful echo of the Gospel's power to transform the conscience.
Themes
Christ's sacrifice Redemption through Christ Faith in Christ Love of Christ