When o'er My Sins I Sorrow
When o'er my sins I sorrow
This hymn exemplifies Lutheran penitential spirituality, moving from contrition over sin to confidence in Christ's atoning work as the foundation of forgiveness. It reflects the Reformation emphasis on the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice (Heb. 10:14) and the assurance of justification available through faith alone.
History & Background
Heinrich Behm's German hymn 'Herzlich tut mich verlangen' was published in 1602 and became a significant penitential hymn in German Lutheran hymnody. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her 1863 collection 'Lyra Germanica,' bringing this meditation on repentance and forgiveness to English-speaking Lutherans.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 367
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 152
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Heinrich Behm in 1602, this German hymn exemplifies Lutheran penitential theology, moving decisively from the Law's accusation of sin to the Gospel's comfort in Christ's finished work and justifying grace.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Law-Gospel dialectic: it names sin's weight unflinchingly, then resolves every accusation in the sufficiency of Christ's atoning sacrifice, offering preachers a vehicle to move hearers from conviction to assurance.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christ's Lenten self-denial models our repentance; His victory over Satan empowers our spiritual triumph; His presence sustains us through suffering toward Easter joy and eternal paradise.
Themes
Repentance Forgiveness of sins Grace of Christ Justification by faith Assurance