Worthy Is Christ the Lamb Who Was Slain
Worthy is Christ, the Lamb who was slain
This hymn reflects the Lutheran understanding of Christ as the once-for-all sacrifice whose redemption extends to all creation, inviting believers into the heavenly liturgy. It emphasizes both the objective work of Christ's atonement and the eschatological hope of joining the communion of saints in worship.
History & Background
Written in 2001 by Northern Irish composer Keith Getty and English worship leader Stuart Townend, this modern hymn draws directly from the vision in Revelation 5 of heavenly worship. It has been widely adopted in contemporary Lutheran and evangelical worship since the early 2000s.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 808
- Lutheran Service Book — 979
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 598
Bulletin Note
Written in 2001 by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend, this modern hymn retrieves the language of Revelation's heavenly throne room, inviting congregations to join the eternal song of creation's redemption.
Preaching Connection
This hymn's proclamation of Christ's once-for-all sacrifice and the eschatological invitation to heavenly praise amplifies the Gospel's promise that redemption is complete and extends even now to those who seem least worthy.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Third Article (Concerning Sanctification) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
Themes
Christ's redemption Lamb of God Heavenly worship Ascension and exaltation